‘Bharat Jodo Vivah’: A wedding invitation that celebrates diversity and unity

The wedding invite of Abhilasha and Vinal celebrates their regional heritage. (X/@draupadiforall)

A wedding is not just a ceremony for some couples and families, but a chance to reflect their unique personalities and values in an unforgettable way. One couple has recently captured hearts with a wedding invitation that beautifully embraces their diverse regional backgrounds and sends a heartfelt message of unity.

Abhilasha Kotwal, the bride-to-be, shared the invitation on social media, earning widespread attention for its emotional and meaningful message with the title “Bharat Jodo Vivah”.

In her post on X (formerly Twitter), she introduced the invitation with a playful yet powerful note: “When your wedding is more diverse than a coalition government, you know it’s truly special! @RahulGandhi @priyankagandhi — our love story embodies the values you champion. Would be honoured to have your blessings!”

When a wedding is more diverse than a coalition government, you know its special!@RahulGandhi @priyankagandhi our love story mirrors the vision you stand for. Will you bless it?#BharatJodoVivaah #BharatJodoYatra pic.twitter.com/FefrPnMjWU
Abhilasha (@draupadiforall) February 17, 2025

Her reference to the "Bharat Jodo Yatra" led by Rahul Gandhi added a symbolic layer to the occasion. The couple, Abhilasha Kotwal and Vinal William, highlighted their diverse regional identities in the invitation, touching the hearts of many. Abhilasha, hailing from Jammu and Bengal, and Vinal, with roots in Punjab and Kerala, proudly showcased their distinct origins. The wedding card referred to Abhilasha as the “daughter of Jammu and Bengal” and Vinal as the “son of Punjab and Kerala,” celebrating their cultural richness and the blending of their backgrounds.

The title of their wedding invite, "Bharat Jodo Vivah," mirrored the spirit of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, a movement led by the Congress party that aimed to unite India across its many states and cultures. The design of the invitation, with its colours and layout, was intentionally reminiscent of the iconic Bharat Jodo Yatra posters.

What makes the invitation even more special is the personal connection to the Congress party. According to Abhilasha, her mother had designed the wedding invitation for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra years ago. Abhilasha, in a symbolic gesture of unity, hand-delivered the invitation to the residences of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, inviting them to join in the celebration.

The wedding invitation quickly gained admiration on social media, with some light-hearted political banter adding to the charm. While many praised it as a beautiful symbol of unity, others playfully linked it to political movements.