Bantwal: As many as 32 couples were united in the Wedlock on March 11, a Sunday, in the annual mass wedding social programme, organised by Swastik Friends Club at Kattemane, of Punjalkatte near here.

ACP Prakash Bhandary of Maharashtra Police Intelligence Cadre, opening the event, called it one of the most significant events being held by various communities in human society. He lauded the Club for uniting economically backward communities, in mass marriage programmes.

Swami Muktananda of Karinge Ashram in a benedictory message, stated that helping such downtrodden sections of society in marriage services, could fetch high eternal rewards in love and dignity.

Mulunad(Mumbai) Bunts president Nagriguttu Vivek Shetty presided over the socio-cultural event.

CDA Chief B. Nagaraja Shetty, BJP DK Chief Padmanabha Kottary, state Bal Bhawan society head G.K. Bhat, former MLA Rukmaya Poojary and many others were present during the programme.

M. Tungappa Bangera of the Club made introductory remarks. PM Prabhakar Welcomed. Secretary Jayaraj Attaje thanked the gathering. Several awards were also presented to achievers.