Mumbai, May 30: In its fifth year, the Hazrat Shah Saqlain Academy of India sponsored the weddings of 31 underprivileged couples
A mass marriage of 31 poor Muslim girls took place at the YMCA grounds near Mumbai Central on May 29, arranged by Hazrat Shah Saqlain Academy Of India. The trust has been organising marriages for five years, to help underprivileged families.
They distribute forms (Rs 250 each) and later conduct a survey before picking families whose marriages they’ll sponsor.
Founder Haji Mumtaz Miya Saqlaini, and brother of modern sufi saint Hazrat Miyan of Bareilly (UP), said, “There is poverty in our community, hence the decision to arrange free marriages.
We provide the couples with everything they need to start a new life, from a bed to a stove.” Fifty people from the groom and bride’s families were invited for each of the weddings.
On Saturday, the trust made sure there were separate arrangements for men and women, and guests were given passes for dinner. The meal comprised just one dish: the wholesome Zam Zam Pulao.
One-dish feast
The Zam Zam Pulao, the only item served at the mass marriage on Saturday, May 29, was made of a mix of meats: chicken, mutton, eggs, kofta and gurda kaleji (lamb), all mixed with vegetables.
-Agencies