Couples reconsidering divorce after reflecting on the vows made during the Saptapadi (Saat Phere)

Commendable efforts by women judge of the Family Court in Bemetara (Chhattisgarh)

Bemetara (Chhattisgarh) – A couple who had come seeking a divorce at a the Lok Adalat in Bemetara withdrew their decision after receiving positive counselling from the Family Court Judge Neelima Singh Baghel. Judge Baghel’s unique approach involves reminding couples of the vows taken during the Saptapadi ritual at the time of marriage.

The Supreme Court mandates a 6-month period for couples seeking divorce, intended to give them time to reflect or resolve their differences. Judge Neelima Singh has framed the Saptapadi vows on the walls of her Courtroom and encourages couples to reflect on these 7 promises. This serves as a reminder of their responsibilities towards each other, their children, and their families.

Judge Neelima Singh explains, “Saptapadi is in Sanskrit, and most people don’t remember these wedding vows. That is why I translate them into Hindi, frame them and gift them to the couples, so that they remain aware of their responsibilities.”

Editorial Perspective

In Hindu culture, there is no inherent provision for divorce in married life. Divorce is a concept borrowed from Western society. If couples faithfully adhere to the promises made during the Saptapadi, the thought of divorce may never arise.