A grand mass wedding ceremony for 251 couples was held at Bageshwar Dham on the occasion of Maha Shivratri in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu. The President blessed the newlyweds and gave them gifts, wishing them a happy married life. Governor Mangubhai Patel and Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav also extended their blessings. Each newlywed couple will receive ₹51,000 as a gift.
President Smt Murmu commended Pandit Dhirendra Krishna Shastri’s initiative to address social issues and raise awareness. She highlighted that great saints like Guru Nanak Dev Ji, Sant Ravidas, Kabir Das, and Meera Bai have historically worked against discrimination and for women’s empowerment. She expressed appreciation for how Bageshwar Dham is effectively continuing this tradition.
The President participated in the wedding rituals, presenting gifts to 3 couples as a symbolic gesture. Out of the 251 brides, 108 belonged to tribal communities. Upon her arrival at Bageshwar Dham, Pandit Dhirendra Shastri welcomed President Smt Murmu with a sacred cloth and a Tulsi garland, presenting her with religious artefacts and literature. A short film about the sixth mass wedding event at the Dham was also showcased.
President Smt Murmu emphasized the nation’s commitment to women-led development. She emphasised that empowering girls through education, healthcare, and safety is the collective responsibility of both society and government as well. She stated that by 2047 when India celebrates 100 years of independence, the country aims to be self-reliant, both economically and socially, and must also lead the world in spiritual guidance and environmental sustainability. She urged the saint community to actively contribute to promoting social harmony.