The Painful Journey
The traditional practice of grooms arriving on horseback for their baraat, often seen as an auspicious symbol in Indian weddings, is being critically examined
due to the severe welfare concerns for the animals. Shantanu Naidu, a prominent figure known for his association with the Tata Group, has brought this issue to the forefront through a widely shared video. He articulates the immense distress these horses experience even before reaching the wedding venue. Naidu describes how they are often crammed into small, inadequately ventilated trucks, deprived of sufficient air and light, which itself is a traumatic experience. Furthermore, to ensure they don't soil themselves during the event, horses are frequently denied food and water for many hours prior to their use, leading to dehydration and hunger. This pre-event suffering is a stark contrast to the celebratory atmosphere of a wedding, raising serious questions about the ethical implications of such traditions.
Enduring the Procession
Beyond the harsh transportation, the actual event presents further agonies for these horses. Naidu explains that the animals are often made to stand for extended periods on scorching hot concrete surfaces. This is particularly detrimental as their hooves are not designed for such abrasive and heated terrain, causing significant pain and discomfort. To illustrate the intensity of this suffering, Naidu draws a parallel to the excruciating sensation of having one's fingernails pulled, emphasizing the acute and persistent discomfort. Adding to their distress, horses are sometimes subjected to coercive measures, such as having steel spikes inserted into their gums. This cruel practice is reportedly used to maintain control, especially when confronted with the overwhelming stimuli of loud wedding music and fireworks, which can easily agitate and frighten them. The cumulative effect of these conditions transforms a celebratory procession into an ordeal for the animal.
A Call for Compassion
The viral video and Shantanu Naidu's impassioned plea have resonated with many, prompting a broader societal discussion about the ethics of using animals in celebrations. The comments section of Naidu's post reflects a growing awareness and a desire for more compassionate wedding practices. Several individuals shared their personal decisions to forgo the tradition, opting for alternative, more humane approaches. For instance, one user recounted how their family refused the groom's request to arrive on horseback, successfully convincing him to use a car instead. Another commenter thoughtfully suggested that in an era where modern alternatives like cars are readily available, relying on animal rides solely for the sake of tradition or entertainment warrants deep reflection. The consensus among many is that celebrations should embody kindness and consideration for all living beings, moving away from practices that inflict pain or discomfort. This sentiment is echoed by those who consciously chose not to have a 'ghodi' in their baraat, emphasizing that no celebration should commence with harm to an animal.
