Norwegian Princess Weds Spiritual Guru Amid Controversy

On August 31, 2024, Princess Martha Louise of Norway exchanged vows with her partner of five years, American spiritual advisor Durek Verrett. The ceremony took place in the picturesque town of Geiranger, renowned for its stunning fjord, marking a significant event in Norway's royal history.

The union of the 52-year-old princess and the 49-year-old self-described shaman from California culminated a three-day celebration. Attendees included members of the Swedish and Norwegian royal families, as well as various celebrities and social media personalities.

This royal wedding, however, has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns about the perceived commercialization of the event. In June 2024, the couple introduced a special pink gin for their wedding, which Norwegian health authorities later deemed inappropriately marketed.

Princess Martha Louise, fourth in line to the Norwegian throne, made the decision to step down from her official royal duties in 2022. This move allowed her to pursue personal business ventures more freely, with the agreement that neither she nor Verrett would use her royal title in commercial contexts.

"Princess Martha Louise has chosen to relinquish her royal duties to focus on her personal endeavors. We respect her decision and wish her well in her future pursuits."

The wedding ceremony, held in a large outdoor tent, was not broadcast on national television, unlike the princess's first marriage in 2002. Media access was limited to sponsors of the event, further fueling discussions about the commercialization of royal occasions.

It's worth noting that Norway, a constitutional monarchy with a rich history dating back over a thousand years, has seen its fair share of royal developments. King Harald V, the current monarch and father of the bride, was present at the ceremony along with Queen Sonja.

While Verrett will become part of Norway's extended royal family, he will not join the core Royal House of Norway, which includes only the monarch and the next two in line to the throne, along with their spouses.

This marriage marks a new chapter for Princess Martha Louise, who was previously married to Norwegian author Ari Behn. Their union, which ended in divorce in 2017, produced three children.

The princess has been a subject of public interest beyond her royal status. In 2007, she stirred controversy by announcing her clairvoyant abilities and establishing a school to teach people how to communicate with angels. Interestingly, Princess Martha Louise is also a trained physiotherapist, showcasing her diverse interests and skills.

As Norway celebrates this royal union, it's important to remember the country's unique position in Europe. While not a member of the European Union, Norway is part of the European Economic Area and is known for its high standard of living and comprehensive social welfare system. The nation of approximately 5.4 million people continues to balance its rich royal traditions with modern societal norms and expectations.