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Hindu and Jewish couple ties knot in Britain's first interfaith lesbian wedding 

Speed News Desk | Updated on: 18 August 2017, 12:55 IST

After romancing for 20 years, a Hindu woman and her Jewish partner have finally married in what is believed to be Britain's first interfaith lesbian wedding. Kalavati Mistry and Miriam Jefferson, who met two decades ago during training course in the US, tied the knot in a Hindu ceremony last week in Leicester.

Both the women wore traditional red and white similar bridal saree, fresh garlands, and "mangal sutra" necklaces during the ceremony to show they are married. Jefferson said they already had a Jewish wedding in her hometown San Antonio, Texas, earlier this year. Mistry who kept her sexuality hidden until a few years ago said,"It was very difficult for me as an Asian gay woman". However, she said her friends and family have been "welcoming and embracing" to Jefferson. Mistry further added, "I hope many, many gay people -- no matter what religion or culture they're in -- are in loving relationships. Although attitudes are changing, it was very difficult to find a priest to conduct the wedding ceremony. I'm very grateful that we've been able to do this. I will follow the Hindu faith and follow some of the Jewish traditions."

 

After the wedding ceremony Jefferson said, "It's really nice to now have a Hindu wedding here because it brings both of us together and completes both of us in my eyes." 

The couple, who works for an interfaith organization, has flown off to Texas where they will settle down.

First published: 18 August 2017, 12:55 IST