Across the country, there are several couples who are scared to disclose their relationship in front of their families because of their stern disapproval. This disapproval often stems from the differences in class, caste, and gotra – which is the case in places like Haryana and Punjab.
Such couples are often forced to run away, get married secretly, and approach the court for protection to save themselves from the horrifying case of honour killing. A few shops in Haryana’s Panchkula have taken it upon themselves to help such couples whose families have turned their backs on them.
According to TOI, these shops are known as ‘marriage shops’ and line the road which leads to Mata Mansa Devi temple in Panchkula. For a particular fee, these shops arrange wedding ceremonies for couples, rent them wedding attires and costume jewellery, provide them with a photo session, authentic marriage certificates, and a lawyer to help them file a protection plea at court.
The packages range from Rs 5,100 to Rs 16,000 depending upon the couple’s demands. The shops have all articles ready to arrange a quick wedding. Couples are allowed to visit the temple in their rented wedding attire to seek the blessings of the deity. The wedding attire has to be returned after the photo session.
From the legal marriage certificate to the court order, everything is arranged within 2 days.
“We have been solemnizing 70-80 weddings in a month,” said a priest sitting inside the shop.
What do you think of these shops? Tell us!