Russell Brand bought Katy Perry a tiger as a wedding gift

The couple were married at the luxury Aman-i-Khas resort in Rajasthan, India yesterday (23.10.10) and Russell reportedly surprised his new wife by splashing out thousands of pounds on Machli, a female Bengal tiger who lives in the Ranthambore National Park near where they tied the knot.

However according to the Mail On Sunday, Russell -who chose the big cat because she is known as the 'epitome of beauty' by park rangers and reminds him of his new bride - plans to leave the tiger in India and will pay for her welfare on Katy's behalf.

Although a statement released by the couple revealed the ceremony was performed by a Christian minister and long-time friend of Katy's family, it is believed the wedding maintained some Indian traditions.

The bride and groom wore traditional Indian clothes with Katy donning a sari while on Friday, at a prenuptial celebration, she had henna designs applied on her palms and hands.

The wedding venue was decorated with lamps, colourful lights and flower garlands while two elephants named Laxmi and Mala were also part of the wedding ceremony.

A source said: "Mala is a bit skittish and hates crowds but she managed to behave herself.

However it has been reported that Rihanna ' rumoured to be Katy's maid of honor ' did not attend the ceremony.

Although the 'Umbrella' hitmaker organised Katy's bachelorette party in Las Vegas, she did not fly to India for the wedding due to work commitments.

A source close to the bride told website TMZ she harboured no ill feelings and 'totally understood' why Rihanna did not attend the wedding.