BENGALURU: In what has become one of the most anticipated and eccentric traditions of Valentine’s Day in Karnataka, pro-Kannada activist and former MLA Vatal Nagaraj celebrated the day of love by organizing a “wedding” for a pair of donkeys at the Mysore Bank Circle on Saturday.
Decked in traditional South Indian wedding attire—the female donkey in a silk saree and the male in a white panche (dhoti)—the ceremony was held to send a message that love is universal and transcends species, caste, and religion.
The Message Behind the “Donkey Wedding”
Vatal Nagaraj, known for his unique and flamboyant protest styles, addressed the media and a crowd of onlookers, emphasizing that affection is not exclusive to humans.
“Love is not just for humans; it exists among animals and birds too,” Nagaraj stated. “Donkeys are sacred and hardworking creatures with deep roots in our mythology. By celebrating their union, we are spreading a message of peace and unconditional love.”
The activist also used the platform to condemn the rising instances of violence and “moral policing” associated with Valentine’s Day, urging the public to prioritize humanity over communal or caste-based divisions.
Key Demands for the Government
Beyond the symbolic wedding, Nagaraj put forth serious demands aimed at supporting young couples who choose to marry for love. His primary requests to the Karnataka state government included:
- Financial Support: A demand for the government to provide ₹3 lakh in financial assistance to every couple opting for a love marriage to help them build a secure future.
- Safety and Security: Urgent calls for the police and government to provide better protection for lovers against harassment and moral policing.
- State Holiday: A recurring demand from Nagaraj to declare February 14th a public holiday to celebrate the “festival of love.”
Moral Policing vs. Celebration
While several right-wing groups in the past have opposed Valentine’s Day, calling it a “Western influence,” Vatal Nagaraj’s Kannada Chaluvali Vatal Paksha has consistently taken a different stance. By performing these animal weddings (having previously “married” sheep and horses), he seeks to mock the rigidity of those who oppose the celebration of love.
The 2026 celebration saw a massive turnout at Mysore Bank Circle, with supporters distributing roses and sweets, making it one of the most talked-about events in the city this Saturday
Bengaluru,” “Mysore Bank Circle,” “Pro-Kannada activist”
“In a viral Valentine’s Day 2026 event, activist Vatal Nagaraj married off a pair of donkeys at Bengaluru’s Mysore Bank Circle. Read about his unique protest and his demand for a ₹3 lakh government subsidy for love marriage couples.”
