Bhubaneswar, Jul 22: In an era where weddings are often marked by lavish celebrations and extravagant spending, a couple from Odisha has set a unique example by choosing to solemnize their marriage in a cow shed and adopted a Nandi bull as part of their wedding vows.

The couple, Sangram Keshari Baral and Shubhalaxmi Baral from Barang on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, tied the knot at the ‘Anthua Gopal Gaushala’ following traditional Vedic rituals and chanting of sacred mantras. The ceremony was witnessed by the cows housed in the shed, reflecting the couple's deep reverence for the sacred cow.

Sangram, a dedicated cow welfare volunteer, has been working for the past five years to ensure the health, care and protection of cows. He believes every auspicious occasion in life should begin with the blessings of cow. Guided by this belief, he decided to begin his married life in a cow shed rather than at a conventional wedding venue.

Following the wedding ceremony, the couple adopted a Nandi bull from the cow shed, pledging to bear all expenses related to its food, healthcare and overall maintenance. They also arranged a special meal for all the cows and bulls housed at the shelter.

Speaking about the initiative, Sangram said the idea behind the unique wedding was to inspire others, especially the younger generation, to value India's cultural traditions and contribute towards the protection and welfare of cows.