The world's first elephant twins were wed in a traditional marriage ceremony in Thailand.

Male elephant Plai Supphalak Sophon and his sister Phang Sakonlak Sophit were united in the 'Kachasan Sayomphon' ritual meant to ward off bad luck at the Royal Elephant Kraal Village in Ayutthaya province on November 7.

The elaborate event, which featured a procession of 99 couples, a dowry of 4.5 million baht (103,000 GBP), and wedding offerings of banana and sugar cane plants, was attended by local politicians and business leaders.

Buddhist monks led prayers to bless the 'couple' as Ayutthaya Governor Wittaya Phiewpong adorned the newlyweds with flower garlands and holy threads.

The twins were born at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal on June 7 this year to mother Chamchuri and father Plai Siam. They were born 18 minutes apart in what was said to be Thailand's first male-female elephant twin births.

Thai Buddhists believe that male and female twins used to be lovers in their past lives but were unable to marry - either through death, forced separation or relationship problems. They also believe that the children must marry each other or be haunted by bad luck, sickness and accidents in their current life.

Thailand has around 4,000 elephants in captivity. They are kept at tourist attractions, and sanctuaries or detained privately so they can be hired out for antiquated religious customs.