YAVATMAL: Loni, a nondescript village in Arni tehsil in Yavatmal district, witnessed a unique marriage on November 16 and 17. The bride was 72-year-old and the groom 81. The couple, which had got married 65 years ago, once again tied the knot and performed all wedding rituals right from haldi to saat fere. And what’s more, their sons — both above 50 years old now — donned the role of parents of the bride and groom and performed the rituals.
Sitaram Hiwrale and Nirmala Ingole had first married on November 16, 1955, in Khandala village of Arni tehsil. Both were minor then. Sitaram was 15 while Nirmala was barely 6. As per the custom then, the marriage was an arranged one.
“The couple completed 65 years of married life this year, but they hardly have any memories of their wedding. So, we decided to solemnize their wedding again,” said elder son Pundlik, a farmer.
Younger son Pandit is gram sevak in Loni. Their elder sister Tulja Jogdand, her daughter and grandchildren also participated in the marriage function.
Tying the knot again and reaffirming the marriage vows on golden or diamond jubilee of wedding is not new in India, but this marriage has many specials attached to it.
“The idea was floated by my daughter, who is a doctor. Our family readily agreed to arrange this unique event as we have very high regards for our parents. Both have worked really hard all their life for our education and success,” said Pandit.
The family printed invitation cards and selected only 50 of their relatives due to Covid-19 restrictions. The marriage function was performed at their ancestral house in Loni. The elderly couple’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren enthusiastically attended the function.
Both bride and the groom said they had to agree for the event as their grandchildren insisted. “I thank God as we are in good health at this age. We could participate in all rituals as per the family tradition. Our happiness lies in our family’s happiness,” said Sitaram, the groom.