Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh – A surprising marriage in Pilibhit has grabbed attention after a 65-year-old man, Shiv Nath, tied the knot with a 22-year-old woman, Rani, in a private ceremony at a local temple. The wedding, which took place on July 15, in the Puranpur area, has led to a heated family conflict and stirred discussions among locals about age gaps in marriage. Here’s the full story with the latest updates.
What Happened?
Shiv Nath, a widower and retired farmer from a village in Puranpur, married Rani, a young woman from a neighboring village, in a simple ceremony at a local temple. According to sources close to the family, Shiv Nath had been living alone since his wife passed away five years ago. His six daughters are all married and settled elsewhere, leaving him to manage his small home and farmland. Rani, who worked as a tailor in her village, reportedly met Shiv Nath through a mutual acquaintance, and their relationship developed over the past year.
The marriage, however, has caused a rift within Shiv Nath’s family. His two sons, who live in the same household, strongly opposed the union, leading to a public argument over property and living arrangements. The dispute reportedly centered on which rooms in the family home Rani would occupy, escalating into a heated confrontation that required police intervention. While no formal charges were filed, the police mediated to calm the situation.
Police Response
The Puranpur police confirmed they were called to Shiv Nath’s home after neighbors reported a loud argument. “We stepped in to prevent any escalation,” said Station House Officer (SHO) Rajesh Kumar. “Both parties have agreed to resolve their differences peacefully, and we are monitoring the situation.” The police also verified that Rani’s family consented to the marriage, and no legal issues have been raised regarding the union itself, as both individuals are above the legal marriage age in India (21 for men, 18 for women).
A Broader Context
Such cases often spark debate about societal norms, personal freedom, and family dynamics. In India, where arranged marriages are common, consensual marriages with large age differences can still face scrutiny, especially in rural areas like Pilibhit. The legal age for marriage ensures both parties have the right to choose, but cultural expectations and family pressures often complicate matters.
The incident also highlights the challenges of aging in rural communities, where loneliness can drive older individuals to seek companionship. Shiv Nath’s case echoes similar stories, like that of an 80-year-old man marrying a 34-year-old woman after connecting over social media in 2024. These unions, while legal, often face resistance from families or communities due to traditional views.
