The Dhiphale family said no girl had been born in their family for around five generations, making the arrival of the newborn a particularly special occasion. The baby has been named Gargi.
Gargi was born to Saubhagyawati Kalpana Rishikesh Dhiphale. After she and her daughter were discharged from hospital, the family arranged a special procession to welcome them home.
The mother and newborn were taken home in a beautifully decorated chariot, while family members and others accompanying the procession celebrated with drums and traditional musical instruments.
The unusual welcome attracted the attention of local residents, many of whom gathered to witness the celebrations and share in the family’s happiness.
Gargi’s grandfather, Limbaji Dhiphale, became emotional after the birth. His ancestral village is Kolwadi in the Ahmedpur taluka of Maharashtra’s Latur district.
He said the arrival of a girl was a matter of great good fortune for the family. According to him, the absence of daughters in the family had been felt for many years, and the birth of Gargi fulfilled a long-awaited wish.
Gargi’s grandmother, Surekha Dhiphale, also expressed her happiness, saying the family was extremely delighted and describing the newborn as “Lakshmi”, a traditional symbol of prosperity and good fortune.
Gargi’s father said that while people in society often express a preference for sons, the birth of a daughter is equally a special occasion. He said daughters share a special bond with their parents and that he would raise his daughter with love and care.
The family said the grand welcome was not only a celebration of their own happiness but also an attempt to send a message to society that the birth of a daughter should not be viewed as a burden or a cause for sadness.
The family’s elaborate celebrations quickly drew attention in the area, with residents joining in to celebrate the arrival of the newborn girl.
