Weddings without whiskey: How Odh community in Haryana is redefining celebration

In a progressive move to curb substance abuse and promote cultural values, the Odh community has unanimously decided to ban serving of alcohol at wedding ceremonies. Guests will now be welcomed with dry fruits instead of liquor, an initiative that leaders hope will inspire other communities to follow suit.

The announcement was made during a large community gathering on Saturday, where Suresh Odh, national president of the Odh community, introduced the proposal for alcohol free wedding events. The motion was passed with full support, as attendees raised their hands in agreement. The event was attended by numerous sarpanches, office-bearers and dignitaries from several villages.

Suresh Odh emphasised on the critical role of youth in nation building and warned that addiction can erode the strength of the country. He urged all sections of society to help eliminate alcohol from social events and called this a step toward safeguarding future generations.

Dinesh Mangal, president of the Haryana unit of the Odh community, echoed this sentiment. He called on families to keep youth away from drugs and instead encourage their involvement in education and sports and get employment. He stressed on the importance of instilling strong values so that the younger generation respects elders and upholds the dignity of women.

Makhan Singh, the community’s state media in-charge, explained the practical motivations behind the decision. He said alcohol consumption at weddings often leads to conflicts and even crimes, contributing to a wider culture of addiction. He said the resolution by the national and state leaders of the Odh community was a necessary and responsible decision, not just for their own people, but for society as a whole.

The initiative received support from several prominent community leaders, including Prem Odh, former BJP OBC Morcha Rajya Mantri; Jassu Bhai Odh, former national president; Lalchand Dahag, national general secretary; Suresh Khambra, district president of the OBC Morcha; and Dinesh Gadhai, national treasurer.

Leaders of the Odh community appealed to elders to fully support this socially significant decision and contribute to a cleaner, more respectful, and value based society.