Elopement Marriages -'Gandharva Vivah'

People in Himachal Pradesh state of India are known for keeping alive many traditions that find mention in ancient indian scriptures. "Gandharva Vivah", mentioned in epic Mahabharata, exists here in the form of an elopement marriage.

The custom has it that the young couples eager to perform "Gandharva Vivah" are expected to elope and, later, settle for a proper marriage as per traditional rituals.

In Kullu's Gramang Village, the prospective brides and bridegrooms have the liberty to choose their life partners of their choice. Following the custom, the lovers elope and on return to their homes, they are married off as per the local rituals in the presence of their Village deity.

"It has been going on since the times of the 'Pandavas' (victorious clan in the legendary Mahabharata war). We bring the girls here after running off with them and marry them. This is our tradition and everyone celebrates it with great zeal and enthusiasm," said Arun Kumar, a resident.

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