Chhattisgarh mass weddings: 2,300+ couples to wed under Kanya Vivah Yojana
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Chhattisgarh is set to host simultaneous mass marriage ceremonies across all its districts on Friday, 9 May 2025, under the state government's flagship Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana. More than 2,300 couples from diverse faiths — including Hindu, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, and particularly vulnerable tribal communities — will solemnise their unions according to their respective customs and traditions.
Scale and Significance of Friday's Ceremonies
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai described the programme as a celebration of equality, dignity, and unity, stating it was not merely about solemnising marriages but about promoting social harmony and ensuring welfare measures reach the most vulnerable sections of society. The district-wide simultaneous format is designed to maximise outreach and reduce logistical barriers for economically weaker families.
The Department of Women and Child Development has made extensive arrangements across all districts, covering venue management, food, drinking water, health services, and security, to ensure a dignified environment for couples and their families.
A Scheme with a World Record to Its Name
The Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana is no stranger to landmark moments. On 10 February 2026, a state-level mass marriage ceremony held at Raipur's Science College Ground saw a record 6,412 couples wed simultaneously — an event that entered the Golden Book of World Records. Chief Minister Sai personally blessed 1,316 couples at the venue, while others participated virtually from their respective districts.
Notably, Friday's event is expected to further reinforce Chhattisgarh's growing reputation as a state that blends tradition with progressive welfare delivery, turning the act of marriage into a symbol of social justice and collective pride.
What the Scheme Offers Beneficiaries
Launched in 2006, the Mukhyamantri Kanya Vivah Yojana provides each newlywed couple with a financial assistance package of ₹35,000, along with essential household items and full arrangements for the marriage ceremony. The scheme is targeted at families living below the poverty line, with eligibility linked to ration cards issued under the Chief Minister Food Scheme.
The initiative also extends its support net to widows, orphans, and destitute women, ensuring no eligible beneficiary is excluded. Chief Minister Sai noted that the scheme had transformed what was once a source of financial anxiety for poor families into a moment of confidence and dignity.
Inclusivity at the Core
The participation of people from a wide range of communities — spanning multiple religions and particularly vulnerable tribal groups — reflects Chhattisgarh's cultural diversity and the government's stated emphasis on inclusivity. Administrative machinery across all districts has completed final preparations ahead of the ceremonies.
As Friday's mass weddings unfold across the state, all eyes will be on whether the event sets a new benchmark for the scheme's reach and community participation.