The 34-year-old British comic star proposed to the American singer during a spiritual ceremony in India on New Year’s Eve (31.12.09), and Katy, 25, gleefully accepted.
The engagement was confirmed to UsMagazine.com, with a source revealing the holiday was a surprise Christmas gift from Russell.
The source said: “She told him how much she loved Indian culture while they were eating curry in England, so he surprised her.”
The couple were dressed in traditional Indian outfits for the ceremony to bless their relationship, which took place at the foot of a mountain in the city of Jaipur, just before midnight on New Year’s Eve.
A source said: “They wanted to take part in a traditional ceremony and thought there was no better time than on New Year’s Eve.
“The ceremony is usually used to bless new couples in the hope it might lead them toward marriage.”
Russell is also said to have given the ‘Hot n Cold’ singer a large, square-cut diamond ring, set in a platinum band from upmarket jeweller Cartier.
He was spotted shopping for the ring in London three weeks ago, sparking speculation the couple – who have been dating since last September – were to get engaged.
Russell has told friends: “Katy’s managed to tame me. This is it – I’m completely in love.”
The pair are now said to have moved on to Thailand to celebrate their engagement.
