Was this the wedding event of the decade? The ten-day extravagant celebration concluded in Brunei, marking the union of Prince Abdul Mateen – often referred to as ‘Asia’s most eligible bachelor’ – and Anisha Rosnah Isa Kalebic.
The small southeast Asian nation sparkled with grand and joyous festivities, reaching its zenith with an elaborate banquet and a city-wide procession attended by dignitaries on Sunday. As the celebrations concluded, the couple now embarks on their journey of married life, while the people of Brunei continue to bask in the afterglow of the remarkable festivities.
The wedding festivities, blending traditional and religious ceremonies with public celebrations, kicked off with the Katam Quran, a special Quran reading, ten days ago. Anisha’s first bridal look during this event was shared on Instagram by designer Teh Firdaus.
The elaborate Istiadat Berbedak, a centuries-old powdering ceremony customary in Malaysia and Brunei, took place on Wednesday. The groom and bride-to-be were blessed by close family members, applying paste either to their hands or, in some families, to their entire bodies. The couple, dressed in coordinated red outfits, arrived separately for this grand event, with Abdul Mateen leading the way, accompanied by a spectacular parade.
On Thursday, following the powdering ceremony, separate solemnization ceremonies for males and females occurred. Abdul Mateen, in the gold-domed Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, completed a customary ceremony signifying his commitment to tradition and his new wife. The culmination of the ceremony was marked by a 17-gun salute.
Prince Abdul Mateen, the fourth son of the Sultan of Brunei, was considered one of the world’s most eligible bachelors until his betrothal. At 32, he married 29-year-old Anisha Rosnah, a granddaughter of one of the Sultan’s special advisors. Anisha, an entrepreneur running a silk garment company and an exclusive holiday-planning startup, has known Abdul since their younger days.
The pinnacle of the celebrations occurred on Sunday, where a reception (bersanding) at the royal throne hall of Istana Nurul Iman was followed by a parade through Bandar Seri Begawan. The couple, recognized as husband and wife, participated in an open-top Rolls Royce during the procession, delighting fans and onlookers alike.
The grand finale took place at the royal palace with a wedding banquet hosting 5,000 guests, showcasing Brunei’s opulence as one of the world’s richest countries. Notable attendees included Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Queen Jetsun Pema, Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo, and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. The celebrations, backed by Brunei’s substantial financial reserves, left an indelible mark, making it a truly grand affair.
The wedding of Prince Abdul Mateen in Brunei, labeled the event of the decade, concluded after ten days of lavish celebrations. The festivities included traditional and religious ceremonies, culminating in a grand banquet and city-wide procession attended by dignitaries. The couple, Prince Abdul Mateen and Anisha Rosnah Isa Kalebic, now embark on married life. The extensive celebrations blended cultural elements and attracted attention worldwide. The notable events included a Quran reading, a powdering ceremony, and separate solemnization ceremonies for the bride and groom. The highlight was a reception followed by a parade through the capital. The grand finale featured a wedding banquet with 5,000 guests at the royal palace, showcasing Brunei’s opulence. Attendees included international dignitaries, making it a truly extravagant affair.
Royal Extravagance Gone Too Far,Extravagant Weddings in Economically Challenged Muslim Nations
Introduction:
In recent times, opulent weddings have become a global spectacle, with extravagant celebrations in economically challenged Muslim nations garnering attention. One such event that has raised eyebrows is the marriage of Prince Abdul Mateen of Brunei. While such celebrations may captivate audiences, it’s crucial to critically examine the societal implications and responsible use of resources.
The Lavish Wedding of Prince Abdul Mateen:
Prince Abdul Mateen’s recent wedding in Brunei is a case in point, featuring a ten-day celebration that undoubtedly left a lasting mark on the world. From traditional ceremonies to grand processions, the event showcased the wealth of Brunei, one of the richest countries globally. The royal affair, however, prompts reflection on whether such ostentatious displays align with the economic realities of the nation and its people.
Societal Implications:
In economically challenged Muslim nations, where a significant portion of the population may struggle with basic needs, the extravagance of royal weddings like Prince Abdul Mateen’s raises concerns. Critics argue that such grandiose celebrations can perpetuate inequality and divert resources away from essential social programs, contributing to a growing wealth gap.
Environmental Impact:
Beyond economic considerations, lavish weddings often have significant environmental consequences. The extensive use of resources, elaborate decorations, and large-scale events can generate substantial waste and carbon footprints. Prince Abdul Mateen’s wedding, with its ten-day duration and multiple ceremonies, adds to the discourse on responsible consumption and environmental stewardship.
Questions of Responsibility:
While acknowledging the cultural significance of royal weddings, it is essential to question the responsibility that comes with such grand celebrations, especially in nations facing economic challenges. The public, including the citizens of Brunei, may ponder whether such resources could be better allocated to address pressing issues like poverty, education, or healthcare.
Conclusion:
The spectacle of extravagant weddings in economically challenged Muslim nations invites scrutiny and introspection. Prince Abdul Mateen’s wedding in Brunei serves as a noteworthy example, prompting discussions on societal priorities, responsible resource allocation, and the broader implications of such opulent celebrations. As we marvel at the grandeur, it is crucial to consider the impact of these events on the well-being of the nation and its people.
