Mangaluru: Well known Ukrainian footballer Vitaly Reva who was very much attracted by Indian culture and tradition during his first visit, is keen to visit Udupi every year.
"He has assured us that he will visit Udupi every year. He will participate in our Yoga, spiritual meditation and Panchakarma treatment," Thanmay Goswami, medical director of the Gosval Punarnava Centre here.
Vitaly and his wife have left for Ukraine. after renewing their marriage vows, now a trend among celebrities. He and his his wife, Elena of 10 years, did it the Indian way in Udupi on Wednesday.
The couple, who have a daughter, were married for a second time by Indian rites at Neelavara goushala. The ceremony, complete with vara pooja, mangala dharana and saptapadi , saw Vitaly dressed in white, and Elena in a pink saree.
The footballer first contacted medical director of the Gosval Punarnava Centre here, Dr Thanmay Goswami for some panchakarma treatment about two months ago.
“Vitaly came to know about me through some Ukrainians who had visited my centre in the past. He contacted me for the 14- day treatment and said he wanted to get married Indian style on the 15th day,” Mr Goswami , who has centers in various parts of the world, including Russia and Europe, told the Deccan Chronicle.
As for Vitaly, he said he felt blessed. “I have read philosophies of various cultures and was attracted by Indian culture. Marriage is about connecting with divine energy through nature. And nature is well used in Indian culture during weddings,” he said.
The wedding was witnessed by the over 1000 cattle at the goushala. Mr Goswami said, “Like a woman, a cow too has a pregnancy of nine months. Vitaly who wants to have another child feels the cow symbolises love, peace and motherhood.”
