Karnataka: Grand wedding at poet Kuvempu's birthplace Kuppali triggers row

Thirthahalli: A 'grand' wedding held at Kuppali in Thirthahalli taluk of Karnataka, the birthplace of poet laureate Kuvempu on January 24 has come under severe criticism from various sections of the society, as it was against the wishes of the poet, who advocated for simple marriages called Mantra Mangalya.

The images of decoration made near Hemangana, built in honour of Kuvempu's centenary year, where the wedding took place, went viral on social media inviting criticism from netizens.

Reacting to it, Rashtrakavi Kuvempu Trust Secretary Kadidal Prakash said "my relative's marriage was held there and we had informed them about the rules in advance. They used old materials for decoration. In the evening, noted singer Archana Udupa rendered Kuvempu's songs. Due to the presence of decorative lights, it appeared grand."

In the book 'Mantra Mangalya' written by Kuvempu, it is mentioned, "In Mantra Mangalya, instruments, music, and loudspeakers should not be used. The Mantra Mangalya wedding is considered a very private occasion for the bride, groom, and their families. It is a moment of introspection and conscience for those present, and therefore, it should take place in a calm and sober environment."

"Such events in Kuppali have become a commercial asset for local homestays. The office-bearers of the Kuvempu Trust themselves run these homestays. This is not the first grand wedding of its kind, as many such events had occurred in the past," local people alleged.

It may be mentioned that the poet Kuvempu advocated for a simple wedding ceremony that rejects traditional rituals and ostentation. Mantra Mangalya is a rationalist wedding ceremony that promotes equality and freedom from artificial castes and religious creeds.