Mangalore, Apr 1: An Australian bridegroom tied the knot with a girl from West Germany following full Hindu customs at the Sri Kshetra Dharmastala here. The unique wedding ceremony was solemnized yesterday according to Hindu customs and traditions, with the bridegroom taking the oath by walking seven steps or 'Sapthapadi' along with the bride, tying the 'mangalsootra' and both exchanging garlands.

Lans John Brendish (30) from Australia and Karin Gunthar (28) from Germany were christened Sridhar and Laxmi respectively for the wedding ceremony. Clad in a silk dhoti and saree, John and Karin sat before an 'Agnikunda'(fire) for nearly two and-a-half hours to complete the wedding process, which was held at 'Vasanth Mahal' adjacent to the famous Manjunatheshwara temple at Dharmastala. Dr S G Prasanna Aithal, Lecturer at Alva's College, Moodabidre and his father Prof S S Aithal were instrumental in getting them married. Prof Aithal performed the 'Kanyadaan', the tradition of a father giving his daughter to the groom. John's friend who participated in 'Laja Homa', became the 'brother of the bride'. Dr D Veerendra Heggade, Sri Kshetra Dharmastala Dharmadhikari, who was present at the wedding ceremony, blessed the couples. Karin's mother, aunt and friends attended the wedding, which was followed by a sumptuous meal in true Indian style.


UNI