Family Performs Symbolic Last Rites for Daughter After Inter-Caste Love Marriage in Madhya Pradesh
Ujjain family declares daughter 'dead' after she marries against their wishes, sparking debate over social traditions and family honour
A family in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, has drawn widespread attention after performing the symbolic last rites of their living daughter following her inter-caste love marriage against the family's wishes.
The incident took place in the Narsingh Temple area of Khachrod town, where the family publicly declared that their daughter, Komal Prajapat, was "dead" to them after she married a man of her choice without their consent.
According to the family, they had repeatedly tried to convince Komal not to proceed with the marriage, but she refused. The dispute reportedly reached the local police station, where the family alleged that Komal declined to acknowledge her parents and siblings. They claimed this deeply hurt them and led to their decision to sever all ties.
In the presence of relatives and members of the local community, the family conducted a symbolic funeral ceremony. Komal's photograph was placed in the courtyard, traditional mourning rituals were performed, and the photograph was later burned in a symbolic cremation. The family also carried out rituals typically observed after a person's death.
Family members became emotional during the ceremony, saying they had raised Komal with love and care but now considered her "dead" to the family because of the breakdown in their relationship.
Komal's sister said the family's decision was intended as a message to young women who leave home and marry without their family's approval while also cutting ties with their parents. Her brother maintained that the family had made every effort to persuade her before she chose to marry.
The ritual, locally known as 'Gorni', is a symbolic social practice followed in some communities, where families treat a member as deceased after they marry against the family's wishes or permanently sever relations. However, the practice has no legal recognition and carries no legal consequences.
The incident has triggered discussions on social customs, inter-caste marriages, family honour, and individual freedom, with many questioning the emotional and societal impact of such symbolic acts.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, News Setu makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the content. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.