Muslim Doctor Presides Over French Christian Couple's Wedding at a Kerala Temple

The wedding of the French Christian couple that happened in a Hindu temple in Kerala's Mayyazhi witnessed attendees from different faiths, celebrating the spirit of unity. The couple, Emmanuel and Emily, who has long admired Indian culture fulfilled their dream of getting married in Kerala, with a Muslim doctor officiating the wedding ceremonies.

The event that caught the attention of many was held on February 10, 2025 (Monday) in Mayyazhi, a former French colony in the presence of their close friends. The wedding which was conducted as per the Hindu rituals in Mahe (another name for Mayyazhi) is a remarkable display of the religious harmony that every individual should inculcate in their minds.

The French couple, both Christians, vowed to spend rest of their lives as one mind and one body in front of Sri Venugopala temple in Azhiyur. The Sri Venugopala temple is one of the few temples in the Malabar area where the marble statue of Sri Narayana Guru has been enshrined. The ceremony which radiated the love and affection of the beautiful couple and the blessings of the family is embedded in the book of history as an instance of peaceful coexistence of people of different faiths. Sri Narayana Guru, a social reformer who advocated for social equality and fought against caste system witnessed the auspicious occasion of Emmanuel and Emily tying the knot.

During the ceremony, presided over by the temple authorities, a Muslim doctor named Asgar acted as the guardian of the bride and carried out the 'kanyadanam' by placing the bride’s hand in the groom's arms. Both bride and groom had read about the diverse culture and traditions of the nation, and choose Kerala as their wedding destination. After the wedding, the couple held a reception in Dr. Asgar’s 'Greens Ayurveda' in Azhiyur celebrating the occasion with their loved ones.

Kerala is a state which is renowned for its religious harmony with every household taking part in religious celebrations regardless of their faith and religion. The wedding, blending cultures and faiths, with a Muslim doctor officiating the same stood as a testament to India’s rich diversity and inclusive traditions. Mahe, which belongs to the Union Territory of Puducherry but located in Kerala is a breathtaking tourist destination, which now tells the tale of religious unity.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Jithin Paul/MSM)