You liked my tips for adding a Greek touch to your wedding in last week’s post, I decided to continue with the theme. I want to take advantage of everything I have learned around the world , at weddings and congresses that I have held in the four corners to share here the coolest traditions that you can bring from different cultures to your wedding.
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Along with the United Arab Emirates, India is one of the biggest references in weddings . Many of the grand celebrations we know and see booming on Pinterest and Instagram have their origins in the country. And for those who do not know, the predominant religion in India is Hinduism, followed, in that order, by Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism. And that’s why I separated the 10 coolest Indian wedding traditions for you!
1 – In India, there is no contracted celebrant, or even a religious leader. In fact, you can even have it. However, the most traditional is to have the celebration performed by the guests themselves.
2 – Just like here in Brazil, Indian parties go on until dawn. But that is not if it is lively, it is the rule. And there are several days of celebration.
3 – Before the ceremony, the bride’s friends and family make the henna designs on the arms and hands of the future wife. This ritual can last for days, depending on the quantity invited and the complexity of the design. The drawings are believed to prevent the evil eye and deter evil spirits, freeing women from countless diseases. This tradition is called Mehandi Rat.
4 – At a certain time of the party, the bride and groom hold hands to surround the sacred fire seven times in a row, reciting the oaths. The number seven refers to the earth, the sun, the moon and the four planets visible to the naked eye, all in thanks to the law of the cosmos. This ritual is called Saptapadi .
5 – Sandalwood is widely used in Indian culture and, of course, could not be left out of the big day. Sandalwood represents harmony, spiritual ascension and protection. The bride and groom should take a bath in sandalwood, chanting mantras that help in the purification of the bodies for the wedding.
6 – Unlike Brazilians, in India the bride does not dress in white. On the contrary, your wedding attire has many colors – and preferably vibrant. The groom wears even more accessories, with lots of jewelry, a turban and a sword – which represents the idea that the man is able to defend his wife’s honor.
7 – No hotel for the newlyweds rs! The wedding night traditionally takes place at the groom’s family home. The relationship works as a ritual for spiritual elevation, so they must be virgins. Indians use the teachings of the kama sutra a lot to conduct this evening.
8 – Baraat is how the procession of the groom with his family and friends is known for the place of the ceremony. For those who have been to India, this is a very traditional moment on the streets. It is always possible to find groups walking together. Today the groom goes on horseback, but in the past do you believe that this route was done on elephants?
9 – At the party there is even a dance competition between families, believe me? The Sangeet as it is known, the battle choreography among family members. Of course, everything with great joy.
10 – Finally, a ritual that is not exactly a wedding, but worth telling. The ROCE is a ritual to bless the couple in the engagement. Coconut milk is poured into them as a sign of blessing.
So, what did you think? Are we going to organize an Indian wedding here or there?
Kisses and until next time!
Simone
