Barmer/Pali, May 19 -- A caste panchayat in Pali district on Monday announced a Rs.2.5 lakh penalty for any groom who appears at his wedding with a beard, while also adopting strict resolutions to ban child marriage, mrityu bhoj (death feasts), and the serving of alcohol and other intoxicants at social functions. The resolutions were passed at Gurjar community mahapanchayat to simplify ceremonies, reduce unnecessary expenditure, and discourage practices considered harmful to society. According to community leaders, the decision regarding the groom's beard was intended to encourage a clean-shaven appearance, which they said symbolizes discipline and respect during ceremonies. "This is not merely a social rule; it is a movement to eliminate harmful traditions and promote a disciplined, educated and addiction-free society. Anyone violating these decisions will face strict community action," said Narayan Fauji, vice president of Gurjar community. The mahapanchayat also reiterated that marriages involving minors would not be accepted within the community. Another decision was a ban on mrityu bhoj, in which families organize large feasts after a relative's death. Elders said such events place a heavy financial burden on grieving families and should be discontinued....