Cows say ‘I moo’ in Hindu wedding ceremony – in pictures

  • A cow wedding was held in Gujarat, India, on Friday. All photos: Jayant Malani
    A cow wedding was held in Gujarat, India, on Friday. All photos: Jayant Malani
  • Heifer Chandramouli, pictured, and calf Shankeshwar said ‘I moo ’ in a ceremony attended by about 10,000 human guests and 2,800 cattle
    Heifer Chandramouli, pictured, and calf Shankeshwar said ‘I moo ’ in a ceremony attended by about 10,000 human guests and 2,800 cattle
  • Cow weddings are held as part of the Hindu festival Makar Sankranti
    Cow weddings are held as part of the Hindu festival Makar Sankranti
  • The nuptials in Surat were solemnised in a cowshed operated by Shree Om Nandeshwar Mahadev Gaushala Trust, which shelters stray cattle.
    The nuptials in Surat were solemnised in a cowshed operated by Shree Om Nandeshwar Mahadev Gaushala Trust, which shelters stray cattle.
  • Many Hindus consider cows holy, and devotees dedicate themselves to the animals’ service
    Many Hindus consider cows holy, and devotees dedicate themselves to the animals’ service
  • An ornate canopy was put in place for the ritual and the venue was festooned with flowers
    An ornate canopy was put in place for the ritual and the venue was festooned with flowers
  • The young bride received gifts including silver anklets
    The young bride received gifts including silver anklets