Kozhikode, Sunday, December 27, 2009: Shedding its image as an area of recurring communal and political clashes over the years, Nadapuram town near here today became the venue of a mass marriage for members from different religions, which was solemnised by community leaders.

Twenty eight couples from poor families exchanged wedding vow in accordance with customs and traditions followed by respective faiths at the venue, attended by hundreds of people.

Arrangements were made to seat 6,000 people and around 1,000 people dined at one go at the venue, named as ‘Shanti Theeram’ (shore of peace), Sameer Cheruvannur, office bearer of Collective Vadakara NRI Forum, Abu Dhabi, that sponsored the programme, said.

The event, first of its kind taking place in the trouble torn Nadapuram town, was intended to uphold the message of peace, love and co-existence setting aside their differences on political and religious grounds, he said.

Organisers have contributed five sovereigns of gold ornaments and Rs 5,000 in cash to each couple. The ceremony began around 9 am solemnising the Hindu wedding followed by Muslim Nikkah and marriage of Christian couples.

Kerala Industries Minister Elamaram Kareem inaugurated a peace convention after the marriage ceremony. Forest Minister Binoy Vishwom, IUML leader Panakad Syed Munawarali Shihab Thangal, Swami Nirupamanada Theerta, Fr Chandy Kurishummottil also attended the function.