London, January 8
An Indian-origin couple that married in Punjab in 1925 and moved to Britain in 1965, has hit the headlines after celebrating their 86th marriage anniversary with the prospect of being the longest married couple in the UK.

Karam Chand is 106 years old and his wife Kartari 99. The couple celebrated their 86th marriage anniversary yesterday. Living in Bradford, Yorkshire, the couple have eight children, 27 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

Britons who turn 100 receive a congratulatory message from Queen Elizabeth, and Kartari is looking forward to receiving it next year.

Karam Chand was born in Punjab in 1912 and married Kartari in 1925. He enjoys a daily cigarette and whisky, but advises moderation: "Eat and drink what you want, but in moderation. I have never held back from enjoying my life."

Kartari said: "We have always eaten good wholesome food. There's nothing artificial in our diet but things like ghee, milk and fresh yogurt are what we like. We know that being married for 86 years is a blessing, but equally, we will be ready to go when it's time. It's all up to the will of God, but we really have lived a good life."

The couple live with their youngest son, Satpal, his wife and two of their four children.

Satpal told BBC: "We really feel blessed that our parents are still here with us and every day is a bonus. I think that keeping the minds of older people active is the key to them staying alert and healthy."

He added: "If you have been given the privilege to look after your parents you must involve them fully in family life and never get angry with them. Keep them happy and they will then look forward to waking up the next morning."

Kartari said that she and her husband enjoyed doing many things, such as eating together and going to the temple.

Karam Chand is now unable to walk a distance without help, but Kartari remains active and still has her own teeth. — PTI