DUSHANBE, September 5, Asia-Plus --250 weddings simultaneously took place at the “Kokhi Vahdat” State Complex in Dushanbe Monday. 

After registration, the newlyweds marched along the Dushanbe’s main avenue to Dusti Square, where President Rahmonov greeted them, wishing to stay healthy, build strong families, and live in peace and prosperity.  Rahmonov also wished the newlyweds to observe Tajik traditions.

“Don’t hurry up with giving birth to children,” said President Rahmonov, “”Though I wish you that your first-born will be boy.”    

President Rahmonov handed over marriage certificates to six couples.  One of these couples are ethnic Russians – Ivan Vidonov and Anastasia Savkova.  Ivan is an officer of the Presidential Guard. 

According to Vidonov, only he was selected from among his colleagues.  According to him, he grew up in a one-parent family. 

It is to be noted that young men and women that were simultaneously married yesterday are orphans or come from vulnerable or incomplete families.  Therefore the yesterday’s 250 simultaneous weddings were held under support of Iran’s “Imdod” Committee.  All expenses were met by this Iranian Relief Committee and the Tajik Ministry of Labor and Social Security.  The newlyweds received refrigerators, washing machines and sets of kitchenware as presents.

It was noted such bright ceremonies based on national traditions had a considerable public and educational value and it is expected that the next 250 simultaneous weddings will be held in Dushanbe in November.  Besides, preparations are currently under way to hold 500 simultaneous weddings of couples from Sughd and Khatlon provinces on the threshold of Navruz Holiday (March 21).