Payyavoor, Kannur — The Payyavoor Grama Panchayat’s ambitious mass-wedding drive, “Payyavoor Mangalyam”, has drawn an overwhelming response from men but scant interest from women, prompting the local administration to stop accepting further male registrations. Officials said more than 3,000 men have applied so far while only about 200 women have come forward, leading to a temporary suspension of male entries until more women enroll. (ABP Live)
Launched to help young people across castes and faiths overcome financial and social barriers to marriage, the programme was promoted through social media and local outreach, and partnered with welfare organisations to widen access. Panchayat officials said the model application form was circulated at the local office and via community groups to encourage participation. (ABP Live)
Panchayat president Saju Xavier confirmed the extraordinary imbalance in registrations and said authorities have kept the window open specifically for women, including through the Kannur District Widows Welfare Association and the Single Women Welfare Association, where interested women can still submit applications. Officials added that several applications came in from neighbouring districts, reflecting broader interest in the scheme. (India Today)
Organisers said matching of applicants will begin once a reasonable pool of prospective brides is assembled, and preparations are underway for a mass ceremony slated for October. The decision to pause male registrations was framed by officials as a pragmatic step to ensure the event proceeds smoothly and equitably. (ABP Live)
The episode has sparked conversations about changing marriage dynamics, financial pressure on young couples, and the role of local bodies in facilitating social welfare initiatives. Panchayat members said they will continue outreach to women’s groups and civil-society organisations to encourage wider female participation before finalising matchings and ceremony logistics. (TimelineDaily)
