Mass wedding ceremony, with participation of 50 couples, held in Afghanistan

A mass wedding ceremony involving 50 couples has been held in Afghanistan, AFP reported.

Such ceremonies have become more common as low-income couples seek to avoid the high costs of a traditional wedding.

The brides-to-be were kept out of sight in a separate wing—it was only after lunch they appeared, local media say.

The event, in the capital city of Kabul, was organized by a charity which also provided the newly-weds with items including a carpet and household appliances to start their married life.

An official from the ministry for the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice spoke at the low-key ceremonies.

The brides and grooms were then carried away in cars decorated with green ribbons and red plastic roses in the form of hearts.