Mass Marriage Ceremony Unites 135 Couples at Suttur Jathra in Mysuru
The second day of the six-day Suttur Jathra Mahotsava witnessed a grand mass marriage ceremony on Friday. A total of 135 couples solemnized their unions in a sacred and dignified setting. The auspicious event took place under the guidance of Shivarathri Deshikendra Swami, the pontiff of Suttur Mutt.
Inclusive Participation Across Communities
Couples from diverse sections of society participated in the ceremony. This highlighted the inclusive character of the event. According to the organizers, the breakdown included 4 couples from the Veerashaiva Lingayat community, 84 from Scheduled Castes, 15 from Scheduled Tribes, and 21 from Backward Classes. Notably, 11 couples entered into inter-caste marriages.
Special significance was attached to several participants. Five couples traveled from Tamil Nadu to join the ceremony. Three differently abled couples and three remarriages also took place. These aspects drew widespread appreciation from attendees.
Dignitaries and Religious Leaders Offer Blessings
The ceremony attracted several prominent figures. Ministers Ramalinga Reddy and Mankala S Vaidya attended the event. MLAs RV Deshpande and Hampanagowda Badarli were present as well. Former minister Allam Veerabhadrappa also graced the occasion.
Religious leaders from multiple faiths offered their blessings to the newlyweds. Bishop Rev Fr Francis Serrao SJ and Rev Fr Dr Gabriel Mar Gregorios participated in the ceremony. Their presence underscored the event's spirit of unity and harmony.
Traditional Rituals and Support for Couples
The mass marriage followed tradition by being held on 'trayodashi'. Amid the chanting of mantras and traditional music, elders and dignitaries handed over the 'mangalyas' to the couples. The Suttur Mutt provided essential wedding attire and ornaments to all participants.
This support ensured that financial constraints did not hinder the couples' special day. The mutt's assistance has been a cornerstone of the jathra's mass marriage initiatives for years.
Inspiring Stories of Resilience and Compassion
Among the couples, several stories stood out for their resilience and compassion. Sakamma stepped forward to become the life partner for C Chinnaswamy, who faces visual impairment. Their union represents a beautiful commitment beyond physical challenges.
Another moving story involves Mahesh and Chandramma. Chandramma was widowed shortly after her first marriage at the age of 19. In a commendable gesture, Mahesh came forward to marry her, offering a new beginning. Chandramma has now found a supportive companion in Mahesh as they start their lives together.
Historical Context and Impact
The Suttur Jathra has a long history of facilitating marriages. Between 2000 and 2025, the event has helped 3,346 couples tie the knot. Last year alone, 155 couples married during the jathra.
This year's ceremony continues that legacy of social service and community bonding. The mass marriage not only solemnizes unions but also promotes social harmony and inclusivity across different strata of society.
