The wedding of Meghan Markle's parents, Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle, took place at a Self-Realisation Fellowship Temple on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, according to royal biographer Andrew Morton. The couple chose the venue because Doria followed the teachings of Indian yogi Paramahansa Yogananda, founder of the spiritual organisation.
The ceremony was held on December 23, an unusual date so close to Christmas. Thomas wore a sports coat and button-down shirt, while Doria wore a white flowing dress with Baby's Breath flowers in her hair. Brother Bhaktananda officiated, emphasising that the marriage was for the highest common good and union with God.
Morton noted that Doria faced assumptions in her predominantly white neighbourhood, where people often mistook her for Meghan's nanny due to her dark skin and Meghan's lighter complexion. Even at the temple, mixed-race marriages were uncommon, making the couple stand out.
The marriage ended when Meghan was young, but the couple delayed their divorce for five years. Factors included Thomas's demanding work schedule of up to 80-90 hours per week and his constant criticism of Doria. They later shared custody of Meghan.
Doria's adherence to Yogananda's teachings influenced Meghan, who inherited her mother's love of yoga. The Self-Realisation Fellowship counts famous followers such as Steve Jobs, George Harrison, and Mariel Hemingway among its adherents.
