Couple celebrates dream wedding after 63 years

Their original wedding, decades ago, had to be held secretly due to family opposition; grandchildren and great-grandchildren fly in from the USA, nephew does Kanyadaan

- Niyati.Rana

When Mrudula, 86, held 89-year-old Harshad's hand to take the first of seven Saptapadi, she was fulfilling a lifelong dream. Donning an expensive saree in a lavishly decorated chori adorned with gharchola cushions, and surrounded by her family including her great-grandchildren, Mrudula finally had the wedding she'd always longed for - 63 years after her marriage!

Back in 1961, Mrudula and Harshad's union was a secret affair. With only four close friends present, they opted for an Arya Samaj wedding after Mrudula's Brahmin family opposed her marrying into a Jain family. But on Saturday, their love and joy were palpable as they held hands, surrounded by the family that had once kept their distance, fearing societal repercussions.