Apr 18 (Mid-day): India and Gujarat Lions all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's marriage celebrations in Rajkot on Sunday were embroiled in controversy after there was reports of some celebratory gunshots being fired during the marriage procession.
The firing into the air that was done by the Indian cricketer's relatives during the procession almost led to a catastrophe with Jadeja being nearly thrown off by his panicked horse.
As the marriage procession was moving, apparently one of Jadeja's relatives, who was within a few feet of the horse-mounted cricketer, was seen firing in the air from his revolver.
No one was injured, but cops arriving at the scene said it's illegal to use even licensed firearms except in cases of self-defence. They have now launched an inquiry into the incident of a reveller firing his revolver.
"We have initiated inquiry to find if the revolver used was licenced or not. We will decide on taking action after investigation," said Rajkot (Rural) Superintendent of Police Antrip Sood.
Earlier, the 27-year-old cricketer was seen showcasing his sword-wielding skills at the 'sangeet ceremony' a day ahead of his wedding. The footage of Jadeja slicing the air with his sword went viral on social media.
Jadeja's Gujarat Lions team members along with Indian teammates like MS Dhoni are expected to attend the reception.
The 27-year-old left-handed batsman, who wore a 'Sherwani' and 'Kathiawadi saafa', riding a horse, a sword dangling by his side, looked totally at ease during the marriage procession.
25-year-old Riva, a mechanical engineer and daughter of a local contractor, looked resplendent in a a red and golden bridal lehenga with ethnic Gujarati embroidery. She teamed up her wedding attire with the traditional gold jewellery having minarki detailing. Riva later changed into a peach and golden dress.
The marriage was conducted in traditional 'Kshatriya' style, with his relatives and friends attending it, even though his team-mates from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Gujarat Lions could not make it on time for the rituals in view of the ongoing IPL matches.
However, the team members, including Dwayne Bravo, skipper Suresh Raina, among others, arrived here for the reception.
They could not arrive in the city on time following their match against Mumbai Indians on Saturday, in which Jadeja did not play.
Players and office bearers from Saurashtra Cricket Association also attended the marriage.