Moonies pop the question — Ready for global shaadi?

However, this sect called the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification which was set up by Rev Moon in 1960 has a strong and faithful following in India. Since the first blessing ceremony in Cochin in 1997, the movement has spread by primarily by word of mouth, comprising a significant percentage of the over 4 million couples worldwide. And even those, who are already married can renew their vows to follow those of the father, Rev Moon.

“Indians are very spiritual and welcome to the idea of family, so they are more open to the idea of fidelity,”said the group leader in India, Ursula Mackland who is a German married in Bahrain. Today, like every other Sunday, members and couples who had been blessed gathered for a service at their office in Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi. The service in front of an altar of the Rev Moon and his wife had a format of readings from his teachings. Among those present were Sheba Jacob who works with the YMCA, Delhi.

“I was introduced to the group in 1997 and met my husband,” said Jacob. However, she had a local ceremony as only those who can afford their travel abroad get to be part of the historic blessing. Apart from this they also have to pass an AIDS and sickle-cell test.

Balakrishnan Kapoor, an employee of State Bank of India, was attending the ceremony with his wife from Philippines, Flodilus and their three-year-old daughter, Charu. “After I was introduced to this group, I attended many lectures and sessions,” he said. What drew him in — “This whole belief in fidelity.” He said that his family did not object to the idea of him having an international marriage — “It’s my choice after all.” Although the couple do not speak each other’s language, they are bound by common faith.

As this year’s ceremony nears to coincide with a UN conference from January 26 to January 30, the leaders are busy selecting the lucky couple from India who will be the sole representative in New York. “This year, only one couple from each country is going to be there unlike the few millions last year,” said Ursula.

“Indian men are more forthcoming as they are probably free to make decisions unlike the women,” said member Marilyn Angelou, who is an NGO worker living in India. However, it seems that the Delhi women who they had tried to induct, did not bite the bait.