Yudhoyono Attends Wedding Of Sultan's Daughter

Yogyakarta, Oct 22 (Antara) - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and First Lady Ani Yudhoyono attended the wedding ceremony of the youngest daughter of Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X here on Tuesday. Hamengkubuwono X, who is the governor of the Yogyakarta special region, is also the chief of the traditional Javanese sultanate of Yogyakarta. The wedding ceremony of GKR Hayu, the Sultan`s youngest daughter, with KPH Notonegoro followed the traditional Javanese ritual of "panggih", or meeting. The "panggih" ceremony began with a "mad dance" - which was performed by two dancers - to drive away bad spirits. After the dance, the bride and the bridegroom pelted a bundle of betel leaves at each other, symbolizing the unity of their hearts. The bride then washed the bridegroom`s feet to signify her loyalty to him. Afterwards, the bridegroom carried the bride in his arms, a ritual that symbolizes a husband`s responsibility towards his wife. After the ceremony, the bride and the bridegroom moved to a dais, where they were congratulated by the guests. They were accompanied by Sultan Hamengkubuwono and his wife, GKR Hemas. Tuesday`s ceremony was also attended by Vice President Boediono and his wife, Mrs Herawati Boediono. Several cabinet ministers, other national figures as well as representatives from foreign missions were also present at the ceremony. President Yudhoyono and the First Lady were the first to greet the newlyweds. They were followed by Vice President Boediono and his wife, and other guests. Several religious and traditional rituals were held the day before the wedding ceremony. A wedding reception is scheduled to be held on Wednesday.