Norway's Princess Martha Louise Ties the Knot with Shaman Durek Verrett

Princess Martha Louise of Norway married American spiritual guru Durek Verrett in a ceremony attended by royalty. The three-day celebration faced criticism for perceived commercialism. The princess had previously stepped down from royal duties to pursue business ventures, and this marriage marks her second after divorcing Norwegian author Ari Behn.

Norway's Princess Martha Louise married her long-term partner, American spiritual guru Durek Verrett, in a ceremony attended by Norwegian royalty on Saturday. The event drew criticism for its commercial aspects, notably the promotion of a special wedding pink gin.

The couple's relationship, first announced in 2019, culminated in a picturesque wedding in Geiranger. Although Martha Louise stepped down from royal duties in 2022 to focus on business, the couple have been scrutinized for commercializing her royal status. They introduced a wedding pink gin, sparking controversy and being deemed inappropriate by Norwegian health authorities.

While the media-sponsored ceremony was closed to the public and not televised, it contrasted sharply with Martha Louise's first marriage in 2002, held at Norway's largest cathedral. Shaman Durek Verrett joins Norway's extended royal family but will not become a prince.

(With inputs from agencies.)