NELLORE: The much-publicised `Kalyanamasthu' programme under which Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) proposes to perform 50,000 marriages for eligible couples across the State on February 22, has no takers in the district.

It may be recalled that the TTD had earlier appealed to those who had faith in the Hindu tradition and whose children had completed 21 years in the case of bridegroom and 18 years in the case of brides, to collect application forms from TTD Kalyanamandapam in their respective districts.

Identity cards

Besides, interested people will have to submit application forms along with identity cards such as ration card or election registration card and an affidavit signed by the parent that the wards are not minors and the proposed wedding has their consent on or before January 31.

But no names were registered so far for the Kalyanamasthu programme except that for three Dalit couples, who were betrothed at different Dalitwadas at Sullurpet as a prelude to the programme a few weeks ago. Even after the announcement that each bride will get a free gold `thalibottu' weighing one gram each, a pair of toe rings, wedding clothes and food for 10 persons each from both the sides, parents have not evinced keen interest primarily due to the fear of losing dowry, said an official.

Lack of propaganda

Secondly, both the district administration as well as the TTD Dharma Prachara Parishad might have failed to create awareness on the mass marriages programme, if the response to `Kalyanamasthu' is any indication. Vedic pandit Samavedam Sitarama Sarma said, "if they highlight at least the salient feature of the programme- the `thalibottu' would be placed at the feet of Lord Venkateswara before being presented to couples- many parents will enrol their wards' names as many consider it as an auspicious thing."

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