Jaipur Police Officers Gift Rs 6.21 Lakh in 'Bhaat' for Wedding of Longtime Cook's Daughter
In a touching display of humanity and community spirit, the entire staff of Jaipur's Kalwad police station stepped in as family for the wedding of Gamini Kanwar, the daughter of Himmat Kanwar, who has been cooking daily meals for the police personnel for nearly a decade. This heartwarming story, which unfolded in a Rajasthan village, serves as a powerful reminder that duty often extends far beyond the uniform, highlighting the deep bonds that can form in unexpected places.
A Decade of Service and Support
Himmat Kanwar, a woman who tragically lost her husband, found quiet and steadfast support at the Kalwad police station over the years. The officers gradually became her closest safety net, providing not just employment but a sense of family and security. When her daughter Gamini's wedding was fixed, the police team, led by Station House Officer Navratna Dholiya, ensured that the family would not face this significant occasion alone. This initiative underscores the profound impact of long-term relationships built on mutual respect and care.
The Grand Gesture: A Traditional 'Bhaat' Worth Rs 6.21 Lakh
Under SHO Dholiya's leadership, the full police team travelled to Maliwada village, not merely as guests but as the bride's maternal relatives. They took on every responsibility typically handled by the maternal home, including arranging a traditional bhaat. This custom, where the bride's maternal family presents gifts and support, was executed with immense generosity. The collective contribution amounted to Rs 6.21 lakh, comprising:
- Rs 4.21 lakh in cash
- Jewellery valued at Rs 2 lakh
- Household essentials such as utensils, beds, quilts, and everyday items, all carefully chosen to support the newlyweds
Active Participation in Wedding Ceremonies
The officers did not stop at financial support; they became active participants in the wedding ceremonies. Setting out from the police station in a festive procession accompanied by the sound of drums, they walked together to the venue. SHO Dholiya assumed the role of the bride's nana (maternal grandfather), while his colleagues stood in as mamas (maternal uncles). They performed key customs, such as draping Gamini in a red veil, applying a tilak, and blessing her as elders would, thereby reinforcing their familial bond.
Viral Impact and Emotional Reactions
A video from the wedding, shared on Instagram by Jaipur-based vlogger Ashok Kumar Jangid, quickly went viral, capturing the attention of social media users nationwide. The emotional climax of the ceremony left many guests visibly moved. According to reports, Himmat Kanwar, holding back tears, expressed her gratitude, stating that after her husband's death, she had feared being left without support. She emphasized that the way the police officers stood by her daughter as family was something she would never forget, highlighting the lasting impact of this compassionate act.
This story not only celebrates the kindness of the Jaipur police but also serves as an inspiring example of how communities can come together to support one another, transcending professional roles and societal expectations.
