NARRATIVE | My Time at an Indian Wedding (in India!)
The vibrant colours of the traditional attire. The rhythmic pulse of the music. The fragrant aroma of Indian spices. My experience at an Indian wedding was truly an amazing cultural experience.
Witnessing the intricate Mehendi designs being carefully applied to the bride's hands and feet was a captivating moment. The exchange of vows between the bride and groom was a profound and affecting culmination of the ceremony. The post-wedding festivities were a kaleidoscope of joy, with dance performances, music, and delicious Indian cuisine. Engaging with the warmth and hospitality of both families involved, I felt like not just a spectator but a welcomed participant in the celebration of love and culture. The Indian wedding will be a memory I cherish. It was a celebration that transcended borders and left me with a deep appreciation for the universal spirit of joy that accompanies the love of a happy couple.
A traditional Indian wedding consists of three main events: the Sangeet, the wedding ceremony and a reception dinner.
The Sangeet, which was held in Mumbai, is a pre-wedding party held by the bride's side of the family. This night usually contains thoroughly choreographed dances and music lasting through the night. This celebration is usually known as “the last night of freedom”. The last Indian wedding I had been to was when I was 5 years old, so I remembered very little. This time, as I walked into the Sangeet with my blue lehenga, I was mesmerized by the stunning lights and flowers hung around the venue. It was an astonishing experience.
The wedding ceremony was as stunning as the Sangeet. Lilies entangled with daisy yellow fairy lights hung from the ceiling above the stage. I watched the beautiful bride walk down the lane. Her wedding dress was silver. It consisted of hundreds of diamonds and sparkles and it was amazing. I will never forget the twinkle in her eye as she stepped onto the stage to begin the ceremony. After the ceremony, the rest of the night consisted of congratulating the bride and groom, tasting the vibrant flavors of Indian food and watching the entire family dance and sing.
The reception dinner was held in Gurugram. This is where most of my side of the family (the groom’s side) lives. This dinner was more formal and consisted less of dancing and singing and more of talking and socializing. My cousins and I ran around the venue playing and having fun while the adults caught up.
Seeing our family all together was such an important experience for me. Family is something that I value very much and bonding with my family during my trip was an experience I will never forget.