Nepal, March 30 -- Court marriage is increasingly gaining popularity in Nepal, driven by urbanization, foreign employment, changing social norms, and the rising cost and complexity of traditional weddings.

On March 25, Lokesh Kumar Ayadi from Bajura and Punam Kunwar chose to register their marriage at the Kathmandu District Court instead of holding a traditional ceremony. Ayadi, who works in Japan, said time constraints and the lack of an auspicious wedding date led them to opt for a court marriage, describing it as quicker, more affordable, and convenient.

Similarly, another couple-Kasam Pant of Tanahun and Bhawana Giri of Dhading-also formalized their marriage at the same court in simple attire, highlighting the growing shift away fr...