Norwegian royal wedding sparks debate over spiritual healer Durek Verrett’s controversial views.
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway’s wedding to Durek Verrett, an American spiritual healer and self-proclaimed shaman, is generating controversy both in Norway and internationally. The marriage, set to take place in Geiranger, has brought attention to the unconventional views and business practices of the couple, leading to strong criticism from various quarters.
Märtha Louise, 52, is the eldest daughter of Norway’s beloved King Harald, and her engagement to Verrett, 48, has made headlines since they first began dating in 2019. Verrett, known for his promotion of spiritual healing methods, has attracted both followers and detractors, with many questioning the authenticity and ethics of his practices. Their wedding, which will take place in the picturesque town of Geiranger at the head of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord, has been clouded by these ongoing concerns.
Critics have raised concerns about the legitimacy of Verrett’s self-proclaimed title of “shaman,” and some have linked his business ventures to the promotion of questionable health and wellness products. Despite these controversies, Märtha Louise and Verrett have defended their relationship and their beliefs, asserting that their work brings positivity and healing to others. However, their critics argue that the couple’s platform and public status could amplify the promotion of unscientific ideas.
The couple’s engagement was announced in 2022, shortly after the princess’s divorce from her first husband. Since then, Princess Märtha Louise and Verrett have been vocal about their unconventional lifestyle and spiritual beliefs, drawing both admiration and criticism from the public. The wedding has raised additional questions about the role of royal families in promoting such alternative practices and whether they should be held accountable for endorsing these views.
The Norwegian royal family has largely remained silent about the controversy surrounding the marriage, leaving the spotlight on the couple themselves. However, the tension between royal tradition and the couple’s modern, non-traditional views continues to divide public opinion. Some royal observers suggest that Princess Märtha Louise’s wedding may signal a shift in the royal family’s image, as they try to balance tradition with personal freedom.
As the wedding approaches, public opinion in Norway remains divided. Supporters of the princess argue that she should be free to pursue her happiness and follow her beliefs, while others express concerns about the wider implications for the royal family’s reputation. This controversy comes at a time when monarchies worldwide are under greater scrutiny, as they navigate modern issues such as mental health, wellness, and the role of spirituality in society.
Regardless of the public reaction, the wedding is set to be a grand affair in one of Norway’s most breathtaking locations. The marriage of Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett is expected to be both a personal milestone for the couple and a moment of cultural significance as it challenges established norms in the world of royalty.