KKN Gurugram Desk | The marriage ceremony of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s son, Kunal Chouhan, and his bride Riddhi was a grand affair that took place in Bhopal on February 15, 2025. The wedding was celebrated with much fanfare, as both families and dignitaries gathered to bless the couple. However, it was not just the traditional seven vows that were exchanged during the ceremony. Shivraj Singh Chouhan himself added an extra vow, which has become the highlight of the wedding.

The Traditional Seven Vows and the Eighth Vow

As part of the age-old Hindu wedding rituals, the bride and groom exchange seven vows, called ‘Saptapadi’. These vows symbolize the promises made by the couple to each other, ensuring a lifetime of togetherness, respect, love, and support. However, in this wedding, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, after watching his son Kunal and daughter-in-law Riddhi take the seven sacred vows, stood up and added a special eighth vow to the ceremony.

The eighth vow was a commitment not only to each other but also to nature. Shivraj Singh Chouhan, who is known for his focus on environmental conservation and afforestation, took the opportunity to instill a sense of responsibility for nature in the new couple. He asked Kunal and Riddhi to promise that they would dedicate themselves to serving nature throughout their lives.

This new vow was symbolic of the importance of environmental awareness and care for the planet, a message that is especially significant in the current times when climate change and deforestation have become major global concerns.

Pledging to Serve Nature: A New Beginning for Kunal and Riddhi

After taking the traditional seven vows, Kunal and Riddhi proceeded to take the eighth vow. The Chief Minister made them promise that they would do their part in preserving the environment. Following this, the couple took part in a ceremonial tree plantation. The plantation ceremony was an act of commitment to their pledge, symbolizing the start of their life together, grounded in both love for each other and love for the Earth.

The newlyweds planted saplings as a symbol of their shared responsibility to nurture not just their relationship but also the environment. The act of planting trees is not only significant for the couple’s future but also aligns with Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s long-standing initiatives for a greener Madhya Pradesh. This act of planting trees will serve as a reminder to the couple of their duty to nature as they embark on their journey together.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in his speech, expressed his joy and pride in seeing his son take such a noble pledge alongside his new life partner. He emphasized that the future of our planet is in the hands of the younger generation and that every small effort counts when it comes to conserving the environment.

A Ceremony Rich in Cultural and Spiritual Significance

The wedding ceremony of Kunal and Riddhi was not only about the vows but was also steeped in traditional rituals and cultural significance. Family members, friends, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the union, and the event reflected the blend of modernity and tradition that has been a hallmark of the Chouhan family’s legacy.

In addition to the vows, the ceremony involved numerous cultural practices, including the exchange of garlands, blessings from elders, and the traditional wedding feast, which was enjoyed by all the guests. The entire event, organized with meticulous attention to detail, showcased the family’s rich cultural heritage, with various rituals being performed in harmony.

A Family Affair: Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s Role in the Wedding

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, being a father and a leader, played a pivotal role in his son’s wedding. As the Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, his participation in the ceremony was not just a personal affair but also an event of public interest. The presence of political figures and dignitaries from various sectors added an element of grandeur to the occasion.

However, Shivraj Singh Chouhan made it clear that despite his high political profile, his role as a father was of utmost importance during the wedding. He took the time to personally bless the couple, offering them his wisdom and guidance. His speech emphasized not only the importance of the traditional vows but also the need to respect nature, something he has consistently championed in his political career.

In his speech, the Chief Minister reflected on the significance of commitment, family, and responsibility. He urged the new couple to focus on building a strong and meaningful relationship, one that is grounded in mutual respect, love, and environmental responsibility.

Kunal and Riddhi’s Journey Together: The Role of Nature

As the couple planted trees together, they signified their mutual understanding of the need to preserve and nurture their environment. The significance of nature in their life together was made clear by Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s unique initiative of incorporating environmental conservation into the wedding vows.

For Kunal and Riddhi, the wedding is just the beginning of a lifelong journey together. The vows they took, including the commitment to nature, reflect the values they hold dear. It is a new start that intertwines their personal journey with the greater responsibility of protecting the planet for future generations.

The act of planting trees is a meaningful symbol of this new beginning. Trees, which take years to grow, represent patience, care, and nurturing – qualities essential not only for a strong marriage but also for a sustainable future.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s Legacy of Environmental Conservation

Shivraj Singh Chouhan has long been an advocate for environmental sustainability and has been at the forefront of various afforestation initiatives in Madhya Pradesh. His vision for the state has included a focus on green policies, renewable energy, and conservation efforts aimed at preserving the natural resources of the region.

As Chief Minister, Chouhan has initiated several projects that focus on increasing the state’s forest cover, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. His role in the wedding of his son highlights the importance he places on the environment, as he has passed down this value to the younger generation.

In many ways, this wedding ceremony was a reflection of the values that Shivraj Singh Chouhan holds dear, both personally and professionally. By adding the eighth vow to the traditional wedding rituals, he reinforced the idea that a successful marriage is not just about personal happiness but also about contributing to the welfare of the planet.

A Symbol of Hope for Future Generations

Kunal and Riddhi’s wedding, with its emphasis on environmental responsibility, is not just a personal milestone but also a symbol of hope for future generations. It sends a strong message about the importance of nature conservation and the role that individuals and families can play in protecting the planet.

Shivraj Singh Chouhan’s involvement in the ceremony further emphasizes his commitment to building a more sustainable future. As leaders, parents, and citizens, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that the Earth is preserved for future generations. The Chouhan family’s decision to make this commitment a part of the wedding ceremony serves as a reminder to us all that protecting nature is an obligation we must all take seriously.

The marriage of Kunal Chouhan and Riddhi was not just a celebration of love but also a meaningful act of social responsibility. By introducing the eighth vow and promoting environmental consciousness, Shivraj Singh Chouhan has set a remarkable example for others to follow.