Odisha groom rides cycle to wedding to spread environmental awareness, protest rising fuel prices

There are not many affairs more lavish than an Indian marriage. However, a bridegroom in Bhubaneswar has a different story to tell. 

Subhranshu Samal from Unit-III area in the Capital city rode a bicycle to wed with love of his life much to the surprise of all. 

Subhranshu’s marriage was fixed with a girl of the same area. His family members prepared for an expensive baraat. However, he suggested them about his plan to ride a cycle during the procession. 

On his queer decision, Subhranshu explained that he wanted to stage the novel protest during his marriage procession against the continuous spike in fuel prices to draw the attention of the administration.

Subhranshu’s family members readily agreed with his proposal and he carried it out effectively by riding a cycle with no fleet of vehicles or high-decibel DJ sound following him. 

What was more interesting was that the baraatis were seen accompanying the groom on foot. While the initiative was accepted and hailed by most of his friends and relatives, social media users and even local residents in Bhubaneswar described it as a ‘typical ideal wedding’.

“With the advice of friends and senior members of our family, we decided to celebrate my marriage ceremony in a different way. I wanted to stage a novel protest against rising fuel prices by riding a cycle. The initiative was also aimed at spreading health and environmental awareness,” said Subhranshu.

“We were amazed by the response and acceptance of people. A number of people joined our baraat and even took selfies with me during the procession,” he said.