Ghaziabad Environmentalist’s Unique Wedding Goes Viral: Dowry of 11,000 Saplings
Ghaziabad : Weddings in India are often associated with grand celebrations, extravagant decorations, and lavish feasts. However, a truly one-of-a-kind wedding was witnessed in Ghaziabad, where 28-year-old Survinder Kisan, a civil engineer, redefined the meaning of a meaningful marriage.
Survinder, an environmental activist from Raispur village, tied the knot with Priya Chaudhary of Bulandshahr in a wedding that was as simple as it was inspiring. Instead of flashy lights, loud music, and a luxury wedding procession, Survinder chose to arrive in a bullock cart, accompanied by guests in three similarly decorated bullock carts.
A Wedding Without Glitter, But Full of Meaning
Unlike traditional weddings, this ceremony had no wedding band, no firecrackers, and no extravagant décor. Instead, the focus was on simplicity, sustainability, and social responsibility.
As part of the rituals, the bride and groom not only took the customary seven rounds (saat phere) around the sacred fire but also took 10 pledges for environmental conservation and social service.
The most unique aspect of this wedding was that instead of demanding cash, gold, or property as dowry, Survinder accepted 11,000 saplings from the bride’s family. This thoughtful gesture sent a powerful message against dowry and emphasized the importance of environmental preservation.
A Pledge to Adopt a Village
Taking their commitment to social and environmental causes further, the newlywed couple also pledged to adopt a village, where they will work on planting trees, improving sanitation, promoting education, and enhancing overall social welfare.
“A wedding is not just about two individuals coming together; it is an opportunity to make a difference in society. By adopting a village, we want to contribute to a better future for the next generation,” said Survinder.
How It All Began: A Match Made in Environmental Consciousness
Survinder, who completed his B.Tech in Civil Engineering, met Priya Chaudhary, a private school teacher from Ghaziabad, through a mutual connection. When he shared his vision of a sustainable and simple life, Priya immediately agreed to be part of his mission.
Priya’s father, Sharanveer Chaudhary, a retired bank officer, was fully supportive of the couple’s noble intentions. Survinder’s father, Anil Chaudhary, a farmer who also runs a dairy farm and flour mill in Hapur district, was equally proud of his son’s progressive mindset.
“In a time when weddings have become a show of wealth, my son has set an example of how a marriage can be both meaningful and impactful,” said Anil Chaudhary.
The 10 Pledges for a Better Future
The couple’s 10 resolutions for environmental and social well-being include:
1️⃣ Planting and nurturing more trees to combat climate change.
2️⃣ Avoiding wastage of natural resources in daily life.
3️⃣ Rejecting the practice of dowry and promoting equality in marriages.
4️⃣ Encouraging simple, budget-friendly weddings to curb excessive spending.
5️⃣ Raising awareness about climate change and sustainable living.
6️⃣ Supporting education and skill development for underprivileged children.
7️⃣ Reducing pollution by adopting eco-friendly practices.
8️⃣ Preserving and promoting Indian cultural heritage responsibly.
9️⃣ Working for the development of rural communities.
🔟 Leading a simple and impactful life, inspiring others to do the same.
A Wedding That Inspired Thousands
This wedding has sparked conversations across the country, with many social media users and environmentalists praising Survinder and Priya’s efforts.
🌱 “This is what real progress looks like—choosing trees over money! An inspiring couple!” – A Twitter user.
🚜 “A bullock cart wedding procession? That’s a beautiful and symbolic gesture!” – A Facebook comment.
💚 “11,000 saplings as dowry? This is the kind of wedding our planet needs!” – An Instagram post.
Social activists have hailed this initiative as a revolutionary step, encouraging others to adopt similar sustainable wedding practices.
A Step Towards a Greener, More Equitable Society
At a time when climate change, social inequality, and unnecessary wedding expenditures are major concerns, Survinder and Priya’s marriage serves as a shining example of how personal celebrations can be transformed into catalysts for social good.
Their dowry-free, eco-friendly, and socially responsible wedding proves that true happiness lies in meaningful actions rather than materialistic displays. As the newlyweds embark on their journey together, they carry with them not just a commitment to each other, but a promise to make the world a better place.
