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A wedding at a cremation ground in Uttarakhand sparks outrage online, prompts an official probe, and fuels debate over viral trends
A couple hosted their ceremony at a riverside cremation ground has sparked outrage and debate (Image-Instagram/@so_ghaziabad)
A wedding in Uttarakhand has stirred controversy after a couple chose a cremation ground as their venue. The event, held along the banks of a riverside shamshan ghat, has prompted administrative action and sparked a heated debate on social media over the limits of modern weddings and cultural sensitivity.
The ceremony reportedly took place on April 25 at the confluence of the Ramganga and Badangad rivers in Marchula, located in the Salt block near Jim Corbett National Park.
The site, traditionally reserved for last rites, was transformed into a festive wedding venue complete with decorative arrangements, rituals, and celebrations. Around 50 guests attended the function, where music was played in what is otherwise considered a solemn and spiritually significant space.
The incident came to public attention after a video was shared by the Instagram page @So Ghaziabad, quickly gaining traction online. Visuals of the decorated cremation ground and the couple exchanging garlands drew strong reactions, particularly from local residents and social organisations, many of whom termed the act disrespectful and inappropriate.
Social activist Narayan Singh Rawat criticised the choice of venue, underscoring that cremation grounds hold deep religious and emotional significance and should not be used for celebratory purposes.
Echoing concerns over procedural violations, Tehsildar Abid Ali stated that the organisers had not obtained mandatory administrative permission for hosting a public gathering at the site. He also highlighted safety risks, noting that the area is known to be crocodile-prone.
In response to the backlash, authorities have issued a notice to the resort linked to the event and initiated an inquiry. Resort manager Rakesh Sharma said that the organisers had been informed about the nature of the location but proceeded with their plans regardless.
Officials further pointed out that Uttarakhand’s rising popularity as a destination wedding hub, coupled with gaps in regulatory oversight, could lead to similar controversies if clearer guidelines are not established.
The video has triggered a mix of reactions online, some users criticised the move as a publicity stunt, while others responded with sarcasm.
“Ab isse sasta venue kaha hi milega,” said one user.
“‘Till death do us apart’ venue,” said another.
“Koi shamshan ghat ni h wo wo ganga ghat ab agar dekha jaye to ganga is pure and poojniye nd agar uske pas koi shaadi kr rha h to usme problem kya h,” a third user said.
“Viral hone ke liye log kisi bhi hadd tak ja sakte hain ab.” A third echoed a similar sentiment, saying, “Viral hone ke liye log kisi bhi hadd tak ja sakte hain ab,” a fourth wrote.
“Kehte h ladkiya shamshan ghat me nhi jaati fir shaadi kaise hui??😢” said another.
“Waahhh aise naye ideas sirf Ghaziabad walo ke dimag me aa skte hai 😂” another commented.
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