London: One has heard of golden jubilee, or even diamond jubilee wedding anniversary celebrations. But 84 years together?
Yes, Brazilians Manoel Angelim Dino and Maria de Sousa Dino have made history by becoming the longest married living couple, as acknowledged by Guinness World Records.
Manoel and Maria have been married for 84 years and 78 days, and counting.
The love story of Manoel and Maria, who are both over 100 years old now, began in 1936 when they first met. In November 1940, they exchanged wedding vows at a chapel in Brazil’s Ceará.
In course of their ‘marathon’ partnership, Manoel and Maria have raised 13 children and are blessed with a vast family that includes 55 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.
The previous record was held by Canadians David Jacob Hiller and Sarah Davy Hiller from Canada, who were married for 88 years and 349 days. Following Sarah’s death, the record changed hands.
LongeviQuest, an organisation which tracks the lives of centenarians, shared the Brazilian couple’s inspiring journey on Instagram.
Manoel fell in love with Maria at first sight, but her family initially opposed their relation. Not to be deterred, a determined Manoel built a house and eventually won her family’s approval.
According to Maria, the only ‘secret’ to their long and happy marriage is love.
In the early years of their marriage, Manoel and Maria had to sell rolled tobacco to support the growing family. Despite the challenges and hardships, they took care of their 13 children and ensured a stable home.
Despite their extreme old age, they enjoy a peaceful and quiet life. Manoel rests for most of the day, but every evening, he joins Maria in listening to the rosary prayer on radio at 6 pm, which followed by a televised mass.
