Sobha Group's mass marriage tally touches 438

Palakkad (Kerala), May 10 (IANS) The total number of mass marriages arranged by Middle East based Keralite P.N.C. Menon's Sobha Group has touched 438 after 19 more weddings were solemnized Saturday.

Under the programme of organising community marriages, women from the Vadakkenchery and Kizhakkenchery gram panchayats, in Palakkad district, which have been adopted by Menon, are married off in a mass ceremony.

These marriages are held under the aegis of Sri Kurumba Trust, where his wife Shobha Menon and he are trustees.

Irrespective of their religion, all those who apply to this scheme are assessed by the trust for their financial background. On the wedding day, each of the brides is given five sovereigns of gold, basic items necessary for a family and dress materials.

The bride's parents choose the groom.

Menon set up Sobha Developers in 1995 and it is now one of the largest real estate players in the country.

The next function of community marriages will be held in December for which the selection process has begun.