Indians Declare Rishi Sunak and Wife Akshata New ‘Couple Goals’ After Fixing Tie and Holding Umbrella – News18
Curated By: Sumedha Kirti
Last Updated: September 10, 2023, 12:22 IST
After their viral ‘tie-fixing’ picture, the couple’s photos from Sunday’s Akshardham Temple visit are receiving appreciation.
Rishi Sunak-Akshara Murty: Besides Indians, swamis at Akshardham too praised Rishi Sunak. A swami said that despite the inclement weather conditions, UK PM dedicated almost one hour to partake in the act of darshan and prayer at the temple
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his businesswoman-wife Akshata Murty have become the new “couple goals” since they arrived in New Delhi for the G20 Summit. After their viral “tie-fixing” picture, the couple’s photos from their visit to Akshardham Temple on Sunday have been widely appreciated by Indians.
Welcomed at the temple in a traditional Hindu manner, Sunak and Murty were seen performing “aarti” and “abhishek” (ritual pouring of water) on the murti of Shri Nilkanth Varni Maharaj. They offered prayers for world peace, progress, and harmony.
Sunak said in a statement, “My wife and I were delighted to visit Swaminarayan Akshardham for darshan and puja this morning. We were amazed by the beauty of this temple and its universal message of peace, harmony, and becoming a better human being. This is not only a place of worship but also a landmark that portrays India’s values, culture, and contributions to the world.”
The couple’s pictures from the temple visit went viral on social media, and netizens couldn’t help but express their admiration with heart-shaped eyes and hug emojis. One user commented, “Best photos of this G20 summit. UK PM is proud of his religion.”
Another user quoted a dialogue from the Bollywood movie ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’: “London mein rehne se, wahan padhne likhne se, main apne sanskaar nahi bhuli aur yeh tum mat bhulna — Kuch Kuch Hota Hai [2023]” (Translation: “I did not forget my culture and traditions despite living and studying in London. And you must note it.”)
This viral photo also sparked discussions about the power of “Sanatan Dharma” and criticism towards Tamil Nadu CM’s son Udhayanidhi Stalin for his comment on “eradicating Sanatan Dharma.”
Amid heavy rain in Delhi, Sunak and Murty were seen holding an umbrella while visiting Akshardham Temple, which melted the hearts of many. Their dedication to partaking in darshan and prayer despite the inclement weather conditions was praised by swamis at the temple.
Brahmavihari Swami, the senior swami of the sanstha at Akshardham, expressed his admiration for Rishi Sunak. He acknowledged the Prime Minister’s commitment to spending almost one hour at the temple despite the unfavorable weather conditions.
He also emphasized the strong bond of friendship between the UK and India, which has been fostered by cultural exchanges and the vibrant Indian diaspora residing in the United Kingdom.
Another Viral Photo of Rishi Sunak & Akshara Murty
A candid photo of Sunak and Murty fixing the UK PM’s tie before disembarking the plane went viral on Friday, giving a glimpse into their personal life.
The arrival pictures showed Sunak wearing a black suit with an orange tie, while Akshata Murty wore a plain white shirt with a colorful floral skirt.
Netizens welcomed the couple to India with comments like “Sasural a Gaye sir…welcome to India” and “Welcome damaad ji (son-in-law).” Others simply said, “Welcome to Bharat.”
Rishi Sunak, of Indian origin, is the son of immigrant parents from East Africa, and his grandparents are reportedly from Punjab. His wife, Akshata Murty, is the daughter of Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy. The couple got married in 2009.
ALSO READ | ‘My Daughter Made Her Husband PM’: Sudha Murty on Rishi Sunak’s Quick Accession to Power
Sudha Murty, Sunak’s mother-in-law, attributed her daughter’s influence to the UK PM’s rapid rise to power. In a circulating video, she mentioned that Akshata “made her husband a Prime Minister.”
Unique Perspective:
Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister, and his wife Akshata Murty have captured the attention and admiration of Indians since their arrival in New Delhi for the G20 Summit. Their recent visit to Akshardham Temple has only intensified the praise. From their participation in Hindu rituals like “aarti” and “abhishek” to their display of dedication and resilience in the face of inclement weather, Sunak and Murty have become an embodiment of “couple goals” for many. The images of them holding an umbrella in the rain have touched the hearts of people, symbolizing their commitment to their cultural values and traditions. The appreciation they have received on social media reflects the pride Indians feel in seeing their Prime Minister embrace his religion and heritage. Additionally, the swamis at Akshardham Temple have commended Sunak for his devotion and the time he spent at the temple despite the unfavorable weather conditions. This visit has not only strengthened the bond between the UK and India but has also highlighted India’s rich cultural contributions to the world.
