India, Nov. 5 -- Judges and other constitutional authorities take oath in the name of the Constitution. We've not heard of a wedding where the couple takes the vows rooted in humanist ideals with the holy book - the Constitution - as witness. But this happened in Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh last month when two brothers, Sunil Kumar and Vinod Kumar, married Ritu and Reema (not sisters), respectively. Their family had embraced Buddhism. The wedding invitation was unique with images of the Buddha, Kabir and Dr BR Ambedkar. The wedding took place in the presence of a large number of villagers and relatives, but there was no priest, no sacred fire, no saptapadi (seven steps). The two couples were truly inspired by the Constitution that embodies the principles of equality, human dignity, humanism and morality. After exchanging garlands, the couples pledged mutual respect and vowed to remain committed for life, while the Constitution and the portrait of its chief architect were witness. The gathering rejoiced and many were inspired to follow suit. What a social reform! It can truly bring a change that is most required. Marriage is the union of two human beings. Their life journey of togetherness is guided and regulated by the ideals enshrined in the Constitution. Even their lives are committed to the fundamentals of the Constitution. The Constitution proclaims in Article 51-A (e) that every citizen will renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women. This is a fundamental duty. Article 15 (1) mandates that the state shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. This marriage in the name of the Constitution will further carry forward its constitutional morality which is the core of humanism and human dignity. The beauty of the Constitution is that it contains 22 hand-painted illustrations, reflecting our rich heritage and its dharma (the rule of law). Originally, the Constitution had 22 parts and each of them began with an illustration. Ashok Nadir has written a book: The Indian Constitution - A Confluence of Art and History (yet to be launched). The Constitution is public law. Family law is part of private law. Nadir's book breaks this myth. Even otherwise, the Constitution has penetrated family law. Article 21 guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. Every person has the liberty to choose his or her life partner. It stands proved and established that marriage can be solemnised in the name of the Constitution. The illustration to Part-VII of the Constitution showcases the spread of Buddhism in ancient India. Buddhism embodies human values, which are needed not only in good governance of the country but also in family life. Values ensure harmony and peace and constitute the foundation of our personal life. The two brothers from Sirmaur have initiated a social reform. They are hopeful that this will encourage others to think beyond caste and rituals. They have affirmed that they will continue to work for this reform. Marriage under the Constitution will be a step forward. For the younger generation and generations to follow, the Sirmaur story has the potential to trigger a constitutional revolution in the run-up to 2050 when the nation will be celebrating the centennial of the Constitution....