KASHMIR: On Schedule

As a Hindu marriage season drew to a close,* bearded astrologers worked overtime last week plotting the days and hours at which wedding ceremonies should take place. Their intricate calculations, based on the bride’s birth date, were not interrupted by the worst floods of the century which were sweeping through beautiful Kashmir.

In the town of Jammu the electricity and water system was wrecked, and 700 houses collapsed. Nevertheless, Dwarka Nath, a young shopkeeper, set off gaily, with his cousin Madan Mohan, for a wedding date with the lovely Uma Vanti in a village 50 miles away. After they had traveled 45 miles the young men came to the turbulent river Devak Nullah and found that the bridge had been swept away. As there was no boat available they plunged into the water. Madan Mohan, a strong swimmer, made the other bank. Bridegroom Nath spluttered, choked and turned back. With only one hour left before the time fixed by the astrologers for the ceremony, Mohan hastened to the bride’s father to explain Dwarka Nath’s absence.

Uma’s father knew it was bad luck for the bride if a wedding is postponed. Thinking fast, he asked Madan Mohan if he would take his cousin’s place. One glance at the fair Uma, and Madan grinned consent.

The next day when Dwarka arrived he found the wedding had taken place on schedule.

*Hindus can only marry in three of the twelve months.