Woman in Gujarat’s Vadodara plans to marry self, says first ‘sologamy’ in India

<p>
A 24-year-old woman from Vadodara in Gujarat, Kshama Bindu, has sent shockwaves through the conservative city by announcing that she would be marrying herself in a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony on June 11.</p>
<p>
However, law experts are of the view that  'sologamy'  (self-marriage) is not recognised under the Hindu Marriage Act and therefore has no legal standing in India.</p>
<p>
In response to those who call the self-wedding a mere gimmick for publicity, Bindu said she was already popular on social media as an influencer.</p>
<p>
"What I am actually trying to portray is that women matter," she said.</p>
<p>
Bindu, who works for a private company, said she wished to break stereotypes and inspire others who are "tired of finding true love or getting divorced multiple times".</p>
<p>
Bindu also claimed that her marriage will be the first instance of sologamy in India.</p>
<p>
“I have observed that unlike in the West, self-marriages are not popular in India. Hence, I have decided to start this trend and inspire others. People may not like my idea, I am confident that I am doing the right thing," she said.</p>
<p>
Bindu also said that her parents have supported her decision. After completing the rituals of her wedding ceremony, Bindu plans to go for a two-week honeymoon to Goa.</p>