Cow Calf Becomes ‘Markandi’ In A Rare Marriage In Odisha Capital

Bhubaneswar: As per the Hindu marriage tradition and rituals, a small male kid accompanies the groom being dressed up like a mini-groom. He is named as ‘Markandi’.

This ritual is followed irrespective of cast and creed. Markandi also receives adequate attention at the bride’s place. However, in a rare marriage held at Odisha capital on Sunday, a cow calf was dressed up like a ‘Markandi’ and accompanied the groom in a marriage, sources said.

The bovine was decorated with turmeric, garlands, appliquéd clothes and taken in the car alongside the groom. The groom, identified as Tarakant Behera, is a teacher and social activist. He is a resident of Pataharagadia in Bhubaneswar.

“I want to spread the message of protection of bovine species. Therefore, I chose this move to make people aware of the need to protect them,” Tarakant said.