101 tribal couples tie nuptial knot in Siliguri at mass wedding ceremony

Terrari (North Bengal), May 24 (ANI): Over a hundred couples belonging to different tribal communities tied the nuptial knot at a mass wedding ceremony in Siliguri this weekend.

Guruji Pranimi Trust that organized the ceremony for the couples, who work in tea gardens in Terai-Doars region of North Bengal.

The organisation's objective was to help the socially and economically disadvantaged tribals.

"What happens is that these people start living together but remain away from the proper customs and rituals, and because of that they do not get recognition and acknowledgement of the society to attend social and religious functions. So, we wanted to make them be part of the society," said Kamal Pugoliya, one of the organizing members of the event.

The married couples were delighted as their marriages were solemnized following traditional rituals and without costing any money to them.

"We are five brothers, one of whom got recently married. We incurred huge expenses. We are tribals and very poor and cannot afford to spend on our marriages so I have come here. I am very happy," said Jiten Tikka, a bridegroom on this occasion.

Moreover, the married couples were presented household items, to enable them to start their married life.

Mass marriages are becoming popular, especially among the economically backward sections of Indian society, as these help in reducing financial hassles. (ANI)