A Wedding That Began with the Constitution!
In Belagavi, a Couple Sets a New Direction in Social Thought through an ‘Equality’ Marriage
Belagavi, June 8:
No religious chants, no traditional mantras… yet the atmosphere was deeply meaningful and filled with progressive ideals! A unique “Constitution Oath Wedding” held on June 8 at Mahatma Gandhi Bhavan in Belagavi has sparked significant conversations in society. This event showcased the courage of a new generation determined to question traditions and build a new way of life.
A Unique Wedding, A Powerful Message
Vishal Chougale, an advocate and son of Dalit rights activist Mallesh Chougale, and Arathi, daughter of Ajit Kanglekar, entered into wedlock not with customary religious rituals, but by solemnly reading the Preamble of the Constitution of India. As a couple deeply committed to values of justice, equality, and rationalism, they chose this path to begin their marital journey.
A Touching Moment Inspired by Ambedkar
Instead of religious scriptures, under the guidance of advocates Shyamsundar Pattar and Nagaratna Pattar, the couple took a heartfelt oath affirming the core values of the Constitution — equality, liberty, and fraternity.
Paying homage to portraits of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Lord Buddha added a profoundly symbolic meaning to the ceremony.
“This is a Declaration of Change,” said father Mallesh Chougale:
“This is not just a wedding. It is the beginning of a cultural revolution that aims to carry constitutional and humanistic values to the next generation,” he declared proudly as a parent.
