What normally happens at an Indian wedding in the UK?

Indian weddings are regarded as some of the most exuberant and vivid ceremonies in the world. They are all rich in culture and heritage and each is distinctive in its own way. If you have never attended an Indian wedding in the UK, you may be unsure of what to expect. Here we look at what commonly occurs at Indian weddings in the UK to give you an idea of what to expect.

Pre-wedding rituals

Indian weddings are typically multi-day events with several pre-wedding ceremonies. Depending on the couple's culture and religion, these ceremonies might vary, however, some typical pre-wedding rituals include:

Mehndi Ceremony: This ritual involves painting the bride's hands and feet with henna and typically takes place a day or two before the wedding. With music, dancing, and tasty treats, it is a fun and joyful occasion.

Family and friends come together for the Sangeet Ceremony, a musical celebration, to sing, dance, and celebrate the upcoming marriage. The Mehndi ceremony and this event are typically held on the same day.

In the haldi ceremony, turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom's faces, hands, and feet prior to the big day. The dough is used to cleanse the body prior to marriage and is thought to have healing effects.

On the day of the marriage

The groom often makes his entrance in the Baraat procession on the wedding day. He dances to the location to meet the bride's family while being accompanied by members of his family and friends. The bride typically waits for the groom under a canopy while they exchange garlands as a sign of their acceptance and love for one another.

The primary wedding ceremony is typically held at a place of worship like a mosque or temple. Depending on the couple's culture and religion, the ceremony may differ, however, some aspects are typically present:

At a Hindu wedding, in a custom known as kanyadaan, the groom receives the bride from her father. It represents the father's acceptance of the groom as his daughter's spouse.

In an Islamic marriage, a contract known as a nikah must be signed by the bride, the groom, and two witnesses. The terms of the contract specify the married couple's obligations and rights.

Anand Karaj: In this Sikh marriage ceremony, the couple makes four commitments in front of the Guru Granth Sahib, the Sikh religion's holy book. The newlyweds typically attend a reception where family and friends congratulate them after the wedding ceremony. Typically, the reception is a large gathering with loads of food, entertainment, and dancing.

How to dress

You might be uncertain of what to wear if you're going to an Asian wedding in the UK. Although not always necessary, wearing traditional attire is usually appreciated. Men typically dress in a Sherwani or Kurta, while women typically don a saree or lehenga. The best course of action is to ask the bride's or groom's family about the appropriate attire because it may differ depending on the couple's culture and religion.

Conclusion

Some of the world's most exuberant and extravagant celebrations take place at Indian weddings in the UK. They are all rich in culture and heritage and each is distinctive in its own way. It's crucial to become acquainted with the traditions and customs of the culture before attending an Indian wedding for the first time. Every aspect of the wedding is important and meaningful, whether it be the Mehndi ritual, the Baraat procession, or the Nikah ceremony. You may fully enjoy the beauty and depth of Indian weddings in the UK by learning and respecting these customs. Whatever the happy couple have decided to do with their big day, it is sure to be a lot of fun, and we're sure you'll have a great time!