In an unprecedented event in India, particularly regarding same-sex relationships, a woman from Gopalganj district in Bihar has married her niece in a ceremony that has garnered widespread attention.
Suman, a middle-aged woman, left her husband and eloped with her niece, Shobha. The pair, who had been in a same-sex relationship for the past three years, wed according to Hindu traditions. Their wedding took place at a local temple in Belwa village, and videos of the ceremony have gone viral on social media.
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The footage captures the couple exchanging garlands and vows, with Suman performing the ritual of tying a mangalsutra around Shobha’s neck. They then completed the traditional ‘saat phere’—circumambulating the sacred fire seven times—symbolizing their commitment to each other for seven lifetimes.
Suman expressed her deep affection for Shobha, stating that she couldn’t bear the thought of losing her to someone else. “Shobha is the love of my life. We chose to marry despite societal expectations because our love is what matters most to us,” Suman explained.
Shobha echoed her sentiments, emphasizing their disregard for societal judgment as long as they are together.
The marriage has sparked a significant debate on social media, with reactions ranging from support to criticism. Some individuals have praised the couple for their bold decision, while others have condemned it as “unnatural” and a “violation of natural laws,” with some even referring to it as indicative of “Kalyug” or dark ages.
The couple’s announcement of their marriage on social media has only intensified the discussion, highlighting the ongoing societal complexities surrounding same-sex relationships in India.