After '7 pheras' Groom turns out to be transgender, Baraat returns without Bride in UP

Lucknow: Wedding which began as fun and celebration ended in tragedy, after a 22-year-old groom was exposed as being allegedly associated with the transgender (kinnar) community in Barabanki district of  Uttar Pradesh.

How was his identity revealed? 

Just after completing the "seven vows (phera)" on Friday, a 22-year-old man was exposed as being allegedly associated with the transgender (kinnar) community in Barabanki district near Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh.

The 22-year-old groom was identified as someone previously associated with their community just moments before the bride's ceremonial 'vidai'. 

When was the marriage arranged?

The groom was identified as Rishu, son of Bhagyachandra, a resident of Pure Ganai village in Dinauna area under Ram Sanehi Ghat. The marriage had been arranged around six months ago, and the wedding was held on February 13.

The marriage between a girl and Rishu had proceeded through the traditional "saat phere" rituals. 

However, around 4 am, when the families were preparing for the bride's departure (vidai), a group of transgenders (kinnars) arrived to collect customary 'neg' (gifts) and recognised the groom.

According to the eyewitnesses, the groom’s family tried to offer Rs 23,000 to the group to remain silent. 

The transgender (kinnars) group then revealed that the groom was earlier a part of their troupe,where he used to play the dholak.

Was police also involved?

After the bride’s family demanded verification, the groom allegedly refused and attempted to flee the venue. Later, police were called to mediate, and after hours of negotiations no FIR was registered due to social stigma and fear of public embarrassment.. 

Later, both families reportedly agreed to settle wedding expenses, and the baraat returned without the bride.