In celebration of independence following the July Revolution, the University of Dhaka (DU) is hosting a grand Independence Feast and mass weddings. There will be no charge for the weddings; the only requirement is the presence of brides and grooms. The entire cost of these mass weddings will be covered by the students of the Shaheed Sergeant Zahurul Haque Hall
On Thursday (September 12), students were seen searching for potential brides and grooms on various social media groups related to the university.
A student named Shehrin Akter Ipa posted in a Facebook group for DU students:
A mass wedding will be organized in conjunction with the Independence Feast at Zahurul Haque Hall. Those who are former or current residents of Zahurul Haque Hall can arrange for their partners to get in touch with the organizers. Alternatively, brides can contact us if they are looking for grooms from Zahurul Haque Hall! All expenses for that day will be covered by the general students of the hall. As a professional mehendi artist, I hope to play a special role in applying mehendi for the wedding!
Regarding this, DU student Zakir Hossain commented, “May the weddings bring prosperity to everyone. A mass wedding is a commendable initiative. However, I hope that the program will be conducted with the consent of both families and that the parents or guardians of both parties will be present
The main organizer of the mass weddings, hall student Al Amin Sarkar, stated,
On September 20, in conjunction with the ‘Independence Feast 2.0’ at Zahurul Haque Hall, we wish to organize mass weddings. Those interested in marrying within the campus can contact us. All costs for that day will be borne by the general students, Insha’Allah. Feel free to inbox me. Since the grooms will be from Zahurul Haque Hall, we hope to get permission from the Provost
However, Professor Dr. Faruk Shah, the Provost of Shaheed Sergeant Zahurul Haque Hall, said, “The university hall is an academic institution, not a venue for mass weddings. We cannot grant permission for this. Moreover, students have not yet approached us for permission. Even if they request it, it will not be granted. However, if students wish, they can organize the event elsewhere
He further explained,
He further explained,
To address the traumatic situation created among students following a destructive mass uprising, we are organizing the ‘Independence Feast’ to improve students’ mental state and prepare them for classes. There will also be cultural events and sports activities. The day will include welcoming new students to the hall and a farewell event for senior students leaving the hall