The newly-wed couples at a mass wedding ceremony in Udaipur. Photo: Special arrangement
In a display of compassion, dignity and social inclusion, 51 couples, including those from the economically weaker sections (EWS) and persons with disabilities, tied the nuptial knot at a mass wedding ceremony in Udaipur.
The two-day ceremony witnessed the participation of philanthropists, donors and social activists.
The 45th free mass wedding ceremony was organised by Udaipur-based charitable institution Narayan Seva Sansthan (NSS) at its Seva Mahatirth campus. Among the couples, 25 were people with disabilities and 26 belonged to the EWS category. economically weaker sections of society.
With disabilities
Many of the newlyweds were individuals living with different forms of disabilities, such as mobility impairments, visual impairment, and limb disabilities. Despite these challenges, they demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination to build meaningful lives together.
NSS president Prashant Agarwal said here on Tuesday that several of these beneficiaries had earlier received free corrective surgeries, artificial limbs, calipers, and rehabilitation services at the institution, enabling them to regain mobility, confidence, and independence. “Many of them have benefited from the skill development programmes of NSS and become self-reliant by earning their livelihood,” he Mr. Agarwal said.
The institution provided each couple with household items to support them in starting their married life, while the donors presented traditional gifts including mangalsutras, bangles and anklets.
Vijay Gamar from Banaskantha district in Gujarat, who married Manju with a disability in her legs, hailing from Chikhla Guda in Udaipur, said though his wife was physically challenged, she would bring immense joy, strength and hope into his life.
‘Equal opportunities’
Mr. Agarwal said the objectives of mass weddings were social inclusion and creation of equal opportunities for every differently abled person in order to help the couples become a part of the mainstream society.
The NSS has taken up activities such as artificial limb distribution, corrective surgery, skill education, health care support, free food offering and talent nurturing along with mass wedding ceremonies for differently abled and underprivileged people. The institution has also launched the World of Humanity Foundation for nurturing their skills.
Published – March 18, 2026 12:57 am IST
