Specially-abled need to feel that they too are part of the society and not outside it. For the past 10 years, Shree Geeta Bhavan Trust has been doing this by helping such people to find their spouses through mass marriage programmes organised by them.

This year’s 11th swayamvaram will be held at Shree Geeta Bhavan Hall on September 18.

The event is open to specially-abled men below 45 years and women below 40, the non-disabled persons willing to tie knot with them are also allowed.

For the 11th edition of this event, swayamvarams were held in 14 locations in Tamil Nadu while the final swayamvaram is on September 18 which is being held for those residing in and around Chennai. Those who were unable to find a match of their choice in the earlier held events can also participate.

After the pairs are shortlisted, they are asked to attend counselling sessions scheduled for October 9 where medical tests are also done.

Once the wedding is solemnised, the couples are given mangalyam, wedding dresses, home beds, bed comforts and two-months’ supply of groceries.

So far 507 weddings have taken place under this initiative which was started by Ashok Kumar Goel and now is looked after by his son Manu Goel, after his father passed away in 2020. Talking about the initiative, Manu said: “The service was initiated by my father Ashok Kumar Goel, and I’m only too glad to carry his legacy forward.”

Ashok Kumar was deeply touched by the plight of specially-abled in finding suitable matches and hence decided to start this event to provide them a platform.

Those keen to participate can contact Shree Geeta Bhavan Trust by email at gbhavantrust@gmail.com or call on 044-28351513, 28389294, 9445198100.