Contracting marriage without the attendance of a Ma'dhun

Q: What is the ruling on a bridegroom who delivers Khutbat-ul-Hajah (prelude to a sermon or speech) and asks for the lady's hand in marriage from her guardian in the presence of witnesses but without the attendance of a marriage registrant? Is this contract valid?

A: If the reality is as you have mentioned with regard to an offer from the part of the father and acceptance from the part of the bridegroom in the presence of witnesses, the marriage contract will be valid. Delivering Khutbat-ul-Hajah by the bridegroom does not affect the validity of the marriage contract. But they have to announce this marriage and not conceal it because the Prophet (peace be upon him) ordered that and asked people to announce it through beating a tambourine. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.