Experiencing an Indian wedding is an unforgettable and extraordinary experience.
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This is one of the most complex, elaborate and festive ceremonies in the world.
It is a celebration that involves not only the couple getting married but also their families, friends and
communities. In this occasion tradition, culture and spirituality come together in a memorable event.
Preparations for an Indian wedding begin long before the big day. The couple’s families meet to plan the
ceremony, discuss the traditions and rituals that need be followed, and organize the logistical aspects. The
spouses’ clothes, like those of their family members and guests, are chosen with great care.
One of the first ceremonies is the "Mehndi Ceremony”. On this occasion, the bride's hands and feet are
decorated with elaborate henna designs. This is a time of beauty and tradition, and the bride gets pampered
by the women of her family and friends.
The "Haldi Ceremony" involves both the bride and groom. During this ceremony, a yellow paste made from
turmeric, yogurt and chickpea flour is applied to their skin. This ritual of purification and blessing prepares
the couple for marriage.
The wedding ceremony begins with the groom's procession: he either rides an elephant or drives a Ferrari to
the bride's family’s house amidst deafening, but enthralling and engaging dances and rhythms.
Here the
traditional welcoming ritual takes place with the exchange of gifts between the two families while waiting
for the bride to arrive.
Upon her arrival, joy and merriment accompany the welcoming rituals between bride and groom.
The ceremony begins with some rituals and prayers. One of its most important parts is the couple’s pledge of
mutual fidelity: they exchange vows in front of a sacred fire. The spouses, between various blessing rites,
make seven laps around that fire, each lap has a specific meaning.
After the ceremony, the actual party begins. There are dances, music, food and entertaining performances.
Indian wedding parties can last several days, depending on traditions and the family's ability to organize the
event.
Food is a key part of the Indian wedding. A wide range of traditional dishes are served, each rich in flavors
and spices. Food varies according to the different regions and family preferences.
The bride and groom will wear various colorful and extremely elaborate outfits throughout the event’s many
moments: embroidered "lehenga" and “sari”, often embellished with gold details, are worn by the bride,
while the groom wears clothes called "sherwani" and "achkan".
The Indian wedding is a moment of great delight and celebration. It is an occasion for families to come
together and celebrate cultural roots.
And for us it was a marvellous journey through these people’s
traditions, joy and cheerfulness, a bridge between different souls and cultures. It was an opportunity to get to
know the hospitality and spirit of this wild, wonderful people.