IPOH, MALAYSIA: Love might prove elusive at a swayamvaram (marriage proposal) get-together here this weekend because the women outnumber the men.

Organiser Perak Indian Video and Photographers Association's plans for a big turnout seem to have hit a snag.

So far only 20 men have agreed to meet 35 potential brides at the inaugural event on Sunday.

Secretary G. Deva said the association was desperately looking for more men.

"In comparison, we've received many responses from women as far as Johor, Kulim and Kuala Lumpur," he said.

Participants seriously thinking of marriage, said Deva, needed to be at least 21 years old and could even be divorcees hoping for a second match.

"You will be surprised. There is even a 60-year-old man from Kedah and a 49-year-old lady teacher," he said.

Deva, 65, pointed out that many of the women were professionals, such as bank officers and lawyers, in their 30s and 40s.

He said the idea for the get-together came up after parents, often jokingly, asked him to pair their children with suitable partners.

"So I thought, why not introduce some singles to each other" Every day we see them performing prayers in temples for that special day.

Deva stressed that the association's duty at the event would be to introduce the potential lovebirds to each other at the Sri Maha Mariamman temple hall at Jalan Sungai Pari.

After breakfast, they and their parents could view the photographs of possible partners, then discuss with the selected families in private rooms.

One important service the association will be providing is horoscope matching by a priest.

Those who wish to enquire about the event, can call Deva at 019-572 3590 or 05-526 0245.