My First Indian Wedding

On Sunday night, I had the pleasure of attending my first wedding, here in India. I met Pran, the Groom, a few weeks ago at my guest house. He's an American of Indian descent and his now-wife, Priya, grew up in Delhi, but has lived in the States for the past several years, for school and work. Since this was an Indian wedding, I was quickly invited along to celebrate with them and their families. Pran and Priya arrived in Delhi several weeks ago to prepare for their week-long wedding festivities. I only participated in the marriage itself, but other events included formal customs and traditions, like the Mehndi Ceremony where the hands and feet of the Bride are decorated with mehndi or henna. They also included more informal gatherings, such as a Bollywood dance party.

On the evening of the wedding or shaadi, I arrived at the site just after 6pm, so I could participate in the groom's procession. Pran's family gathered in the streets to the sounds of drums and there was a bit of dancing even before they festivities began. Then, Pran climbed on top of a decorated white horse and a procession or baraat of family, friends, drummers and bright, huge lanterns escorted him to the place of the ceremony. Here, the Bride's family greeted the Groom and his family and garlands were exchanged. Then, the Groom was seated and the Bride arrived shortly thereafter escorted by her female family members and friends. The Bride and Groom exchanged garlands and guests went up to them individually to wish them the best (and to take photos)!

The marriage ceremony itself lasted about an hour and consisted of the Bride and Groom and took place under the mandap, where they were surrounded by their family and friends. One thing that amazed me was that everyone did not have to participate in, or even watch the actual ceremony. During this time, some guests made their first appearances, food and non-alcoholic drinks served, while other guests wandered the grounds and mingled. I must admit that I missed many of the details of the ceremony itself, because I was seated away from the mandap. Despite this, it was wonderful to see centuries of tradition and ritual take place before my eyes. Then, in very typical Indian fashion, everyone ate and left. I even wore a sari to the wedding and surprisingly, was one of only a few Westerners in traditional dress. All of the Indian ladies were impressed that I had taken the trouble to don a sari for occasion!

This was all quite an experience for me, from buying and wrapping a sari, to participating in the baraat and witnessing the family and friends gathered in such an extravagant fashion to celebrate Pran and Priya's marriage. I am thrilled that they invited me to share in their day and I wish them the best.

Although I had a wonderful time and was fascinated by the experience, I am still not planning on an Indian wedding of my own!