Sirmaur brothers redefine marriage: Vow to uphold constitution instead of religious rituals
Shimla, Oct 27,
In a remarkable departure from convention, two brothers from the remote Nainidhar area of Shillai Assembly constituency in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district have chosen to solemnise their marriages not through traditional rituals, but by taking an oath of allegiance to the Constitution of India.
The weddings of Sunil Kumar and Vinod Kumar, residents of Kalog village, have now become a subject of wide social discourse — not for grandeur, but for their message of equality, liberty, and rationality. The brothers, both government employees, married Ritu of Katari village and Reena of Naya village, respectively, in ceremonies held on October 25 and 26, 2025.
But what set their weddings apart was the absence of mantras, priests, and the sacred fire. Instead, they declared their union as “a partnership of mutual respect, founded on constitutional ideals rather than ritual observance.” Before hundreds of guests, the couples took an oath pledging fidelity to the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution — a symbolic act replacing traditional vows.
Adding depth to their message, the wedding invitation card itself reflected the philosophical underpinning of their choice. Embellished with portraits of Lord Buddha, Sant Kabir, Emperor Ashoka, and Dr. Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the card carried a profound message:
“Dulha-dulhan apne vivaah sanskaar ko samvidhanik moolyon ke aadhar par sampann karenge.”
(“The bride and groom will solemnise their marriage in accordance with constitutional values.”)
The card invited guests to “share the joy of a new beginning under the light of truth and equality,” at Gram Kalog, P.O. Nainidhar, Tehsil Shillai, District Sirmaur (H.P.), highlighting a deliberate departure from orthodox religious customs.
Family members from both sides stood firmly by the decision, describing it as a gesture of conviction — “an act of faith not in religion, but in humanity.” Over 650 guests attended the evening function, while 400 witnessed the initial ceremonies, reflecting overwhelming community support for the unconventional union.
Locals hailed the event as “a quiet revolution in the hills,” saying it demonstrates how progressive ideas are gradually finding resonance even in remote regions. One villager observed, “This wedding shows that true spirituality lies in equality and respect, not in rituals.”
Interestingly, this is not the first time the Shillai region has made headlines for unconventional marital practices. In a previous case, two brothers — Pradeep and Kapil Negi — had married the same woman, sparking nationwide debate. Yet, the latest “constitutional wedding” is being seen as a progressive and peaceful assertion of social reform rather than defiance.
As the wedding concluded with vows taken under the tricolour and the Constitution, it left behind not just memories of celebration but a lasting question,” Is the new India ready to embrace marriages founded on law, liberty, and equality instead of faith, fire, and ritual?“
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.