November 26, 2017:
Manushi's win was a proud moment for the Chillar Khap.
Bamdoli village in Haryana is like any other north Indian village in November - a cool breeze blows through the fields while elders sit outside kuccha-pucca homes, in the sun, interacting, smoking hookahs...
But this time, there's a strong message of change.
Bamdoli is Miss World Manushi Chhillar's ancestral village, & the residents here have decided to honor her victory by ending the regressive traditions.
After the 20 years old medical student won the pageant in China, the Chhillar-Chhikara khap comprising 11 villages in Haryana & Delhi, banned celebratory gunfire during weddings - a status symbol in a male-dominated society that often leads to accidents & merrymakers being hurt or killed.
The khap leaders also banned playing of loud DJ music during weddings, which gives troublemakers a chance to engage in brawls & spoil the festive mood.
The khap decisions were announced following mahapanchayats at Nijampur village in Delhi & Kahnod village in Jhajjar.
Gulab Singh Chhikara of Kahnod village said that Manushi's win was a proud moment for the khap.
"With the world's eyes on us, we wanted to take advantage of the spotlight & bring social change. Our decisions will help end the culture of extravagant spending on celebrations," he said.
He highlighted that a joyous occasion like a wedding often becomes a heavy burden for the family. Many ended up in massive debt as a result.
Basti Ram, chief of Chhillar khap said "our focus is on social reform," he said.
Satish Chillar, ex-chairman of Jhajjar zila parishad & a khap member, said they've asked the CM to come to the village when Manushi arrives. "The khap has decided to give her a grand welcome," he said.
Manushi Chhillar was the winner of fbb Colors Femina Miss India 2017 & went on to win the title of Miss World. 2017.
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