Pakistani-born Bride Marries in Rajasthan: Family Crosses Border for the Wedding

In a heartwarming celebration, Meena Sodha, born in Pakistan, is tying the knot in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur with grand festivities. The occasion is a joyous one for her family and relatives, as it signifies not just a union of two individuals but also a testament to the cultural and social bonds shared by India and Pakistan.
Why is the Wedding Happening in India?
Meena’s father, Ganpat Sodha, explained that their Sodha Rajput community has a long-standing tradition of not marrying within the same clan (gotra). Since most people in their community in Pakistan belong to the same gotra, they must travel to India for such alliances.
This tradition predates the partition of India and Pakistan, and to honor it, the family goes through the process of acquiring visas for the wedding. Ganpat Sodha, who came to India in 2022, began preparing for his daughter’s wedding.
His elder brother, Lalsingh Sodha, has been living in India and running a business. With the family’s support, the wedding has been organized in Jodhpur.
The Wedding Celebration
Meena is marrying Mahendra Singh Bhati from Jaisalmer, a government teacher by profession. The wedding procession traveled from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur on Tuesday night, where traditional rituals and festivities are being celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Meena completed her education at Kamla Nehru Women’s College in Jodhpur. Speaking about her experience, she shared that she finds no significant difference between India and Pakistan, except that India provides a safer and more supportive environment for women and families.
A Symbol of Cross-Border Relations
Ganpat Sodha emphasized that his daughter’s wedding is not merely a personal event but a shining example of humanity and enduring ties between the two nations. Post-wedding, the family plans to settle in India permanently, applying for citizenship.
Ganpat believes that India offers not only safety for daughters but also a secure future for the entire family.
Challenges of Traveling from Pakistan to India
Ganpat highlighted the difficulties of traveling from Pakistan to India. With no direct trains or flights available and the suspension of the Munabao-Khokhrapar train service, the journey is arduous. Additionally, obtaining visas is often a challenging process.
Strengthening Cultural Ties
Mahendra Singh’s uncle, Girdhar Singh, expressed hope that this union would further strengthen cultural ties between Sindh in Pakistan and India. He called the wedding not just a family event but a reflection of friendship and trust between people across borders.
This wedding proves that while borders may divide nations, traditions and relationships transcend boundaries, fostering hope and unity.