Surat Journalist Champions Simplicity and Equality in Daughter’s Wedding

Surat (Gujarat) [India], November 15: A journalist from Surat has demonstrated how meaningful change often begins at home. Naresh Variya, editor of Dhabkar daily, has earned widespread appreciation for conducting his daughter’s wedding with simplicity, dignity, and a strong commitment to gender equality—challenging long-standing social expectations surrounding marriage rituals.

For many families, weddings have become synonymous with financial pressure, social display, and a multitude of customs that carry little relevance today. Parents—particularly those of daughters—often feel compelled to conform to traditions that can lead to disproportionate expenses and even debt. Despite collective acknowledgment of these pressures, few dare to step away from them.

Setting a refreshing example, Variya ensured his daughter Vaidehi’s wedding was conducted without unnecessary rituals, without social display, and most importantly, without financial strain. The family consciously omitted practices such as mameru, ceremonial gold ring exchanges by aunts, and elaborate feasts, all of which have come to be seen as obligatory in many communities.

A notable moment symbolizing progressive change occurred during the Javtal ritual, which traditionally involves a male relative. Instead, Variya’s younger daughter, Ruchi, performed the ceremony, affirming that daughters have equal standing and should not be limited by convention. This gesture resonated strongly with the message of gender equality the family wished to uphold.

On November 5, Vaidehi married Jainam Sankhala of Rajasthan in a ceremony conducted according to scriptural principles but free from excess. Invitations were sent digitally, reflecting both simplicity and a modern, environmentally conscious approach. Only immediate family members and a few childhood friends attended. Before the event, Variya—who has worked in journalism for over three decades—hosted a small meet-and-greet to introduce his family and thank fellow journalists.

The wedding also consciously avoided the term kanyadaan. Variya believes that the concept of “donation” does not apply to a daughter, stating that while objects or property can be given away, a human being cannot be. This perspective highlights an evolving understanding of dignity, equality, and the need to discard outdated interpretations of tradition.

Another significant aspect of the ceremony was its interfaith nature, further emphasizing the family’s inclusive and rational outlook. Variya has long advocated equality across caste, religion, and gender, and the marriage reflected these principles.

Despite dowry being illegal in India, subtle forms of the practice persist in society. The Variya and Sankhala families jointly ensured that no dowry was exchanged, reinforcing a strong stance against regressive social norms. Their decision sets a constructive precedent for families wishing to move beyond societal pressure and embrace more rational, equitable practices.

In a time when celebrations often prioritize grandeur over values, the Variya family’s choices offer a meaningful reminder: weddings can be beautiful, memorable, and emotionally rich without burdening families financially or emotionally. Their example encourages society to rethink traditions, prioritize equality, and celebrate with authenticity rather than obligation.