Challenging the orthodox patriarchal traditions of the society, a modern bride from Alwar led her ‘baraat’ on a horse cart to the marriage venue at Behror in Rajasthan. The couple intended to preach the message that women are at par with their counterparts. They’ve the same rights as men. Embracing this idea, the groom’s family extended her a warm welcome at wedding venue. Dressed in bridal finery, the bold and beautiful bride Jiya Sharma is a 25-year old. She holds a Master’s degree in English Literature. She’s paired up with software engineer Lokesh Sharma from Gurgaon.
The groom was appreciative of her idea. Embracing the concept of bride leading a baraat, he said they’re happy to be a part of a memorable wedding that spreads the message of equality. Rather than being embarrassed or ashamed, he’s proud of his wife. To top it, the groom’s family didn’t demand any dowry, which again sends a strong message to all Indian parents that it’s wrong to exchange funds and expensive gifts in the name of dowry.
As the beautiful bride mounted the horse cart, her friends dance along the streets. This is something we don’t watch every day in a state where women her hidden behind veils. Probably that’s why the residents of Behror—a small uptight town lined up by the streets and climbed terrace to catch a glimpse of this unique wedding procession.
Some two decades back, Rajasthan was criticized for its skewed sex ratio. The census of 2001 revealed that the CSR was 888 girls to 1000 males. The number rose to 909 in 2011 and 938 in 2016, due to public awareness and women-centric schemes launched by Rajasthan government. However, any initiative is a massive failure unless the people support it. Some 50 years back, people didn’t want girl children. Their mentality changed with the changing time.
Talking about this marriage the bride’s aunt is a social worker who works for women empowerment and education. She was the mastermind behind this idea. The aunt, along with the bride’s mother took this proposal to the groom’s family. The good thing is they readily agreed to it.
For now, the happily married couple is thrilled to be a part of a noble cause. They’ve done their bit by preaching their message of gender equality in society.
