Interfaith, intercaste couples spread message of love on V-Day

Madurai: Sharing love stories to dispel hatred on Valentine’s Day, nine interfaith and intercaste couples celebrated the day by cutting cake in Madurai. The event was organised by the Democratic Youth Federation of India and All India Democratic Women Association.“We were from different castes and faced a lot of hurdles including police cases to get married,” said S Veerababu accompanied by his wife R Ranganayagi. “I filed a habeas corpus to bring her out of the house. Despite struggles, we stood steadfast by our love to each other and got married.”K Selvamani and Rageela Rasool said though the difference in their religions was the main hurdle to their marriage, they joined together ensuring that they follow their birth religion without affecting their relationship. “I don’t know if I would have been this happy and content if I had married within my religion,” said Rageela. Four years into marriage, the couple has a son named Chezhiyan Dustagir. “The child should have both religions in his life. We are trying for a no-caste certificate for him,” added Selvamani.The aim of the function was to spread love, said T Selva, district secretary of DYFI. “Some sections of people spread hatred in the society in name of caste, religion and other differences. We say that love surpass all differences among humans and bring them together.”Meanwhile, members of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) expressed their opposition to couples celebrating Valentine’s Day in public places in the city. “Many children visit parks only to see some couples hanging around and displaying affection publicly. Such acts set a bad example. We are not against love. Love is something pure and to be cherished in private by couples,” said Sankilimurugan, VHP district president.
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