Malala Yousafzai, the Nobel Laureate made a big announcement on her social media account about her marriage. The education activist tied the knot with the General Manager of PCB Asser Malik in an intimate ceremony in Birmingham with only close friends and family.
Where several prominent public figures from around the world congratulated her, others criticized Malala’s choice of marrying early and brought back her old Vogue interview where she had shared her reservations around the notion of getting married. Malala Yousafzai clarified her statements in another Vogue interview post-marriage. She shared how her earlier statement about the institution of marriage was about the hardships women usually face afterward.
The 24-year-old activist later changed her mind after meeting Asser back in 2018 at Oxford. She shared her story,
“In the summer of 2018, Asser was visiting friends at Oxford and we crossed paths. He worked in cricket, so I immediately had a lot to discuss with him. He liked my sense of humor. We became best friends,”
She continued
“We found we had common values and enjoyed each other’s company. We stood by each other in moments of happiness and disappointment. Through our individual ups and downs, we talked and listened to each other. And when words failed, I sent him a link to our horoscope compatibility, hoping the stars could help reinforce our connection.”
Malala who previously thought marriage wasn’t for her said,
“In Asser, I found a best friend and companion. I still don’t have all the answers to the challenges facing women but I believe that I can enjoy friendship, love, and equality in marriage.”
Disclosing into the details of her big day she told how her family and friends made all the arrangements and made it more special for her.
“It was a small affair and group effort. My mother and her friend got my wedding clothes from Lahore, Pakistan. Asser’s mother and sister gave me the jewelry I wore. My father booked the food and decorations. My assistants organized photographers and a make-up artist.”
She added,
“My three best girlfriends from school and Oxford took off work and traveled to be there. I put henna on my hands myself, after discovering I was the only one of my family and friends who had the talent! Asser spent several hours in the mall with me the day before the ceremony, buying his pink tie and pocket square and my sandals. My little brothers even wore suits.”
And in the end, finishing up the interview she happily shared,
“We were thrilled to share this joyful surprise with everyone who cares for us – and we are excited for the journey ahead.”
