A wedding of a different sort
I’ve known my close friend Nagini since we were twelve years old. We’ve been through many milestones together–first dates, marriage, kids (okay, mine at least), and this fall I attended her wedding. What made this wedding special to me was that it was the first Hindu wedding I’ve ever attended. 
One of the first aspects of the ceremony is the arrival of the groom. I’m told that in ancient times he would arrive on horseback. Nagini’s husband-to-be, Rooshin, arrived on the roof of a car. You can see that he wears a wreath of flowers. There were a lot of flowers at this wedding.
In front of the car, women were dancing and clapping. Traditional Indian music played from the car stereo, and all women were invited to join in. I joined them, but thankfully there were no pictures of that. Trust me–I did not inherit any rhythmic abilities.
There were also women carrying trays of fruit and nuts. Apples, nuts, and seasonal fruits of all kinds were brought in. The women led the procession with these offerings, and the priest met with the groom and the parents. Blessing were said, and then the procession slowed down. It looked like the priest was shaking a holy rattle of some kind, something to take away evil spirits.
I’ll post more pictures and descriptions throughout the week. In the meantime, have you ever attended a Hindu wedding? If not, what’s the most unusual wedding you’ve been to?
Michelle posted in Writing @ 8:00 am | Viewed 2447 times
Melissa Says:
Wow, that looks fascinating. I’ve never been to a Hindu wedding - and I’d have to say the strangest wedding I’ve ever been to was my own since it was in Vegas!
Kelly Says:
I’ve never been to a Hindu wedding but everytime I see one on tv or pictures I’m amazed by all the brilliant colors and the beautiful saris.
Michael Patrick Leahy Says:
Michelle,
Interesting pictures about your friend’s wedding.
And a hearty congratulations on your first book deal !
As someone about a year behind you on the writing process, it’s great to see a success story. And, compliments as well on your outstanding website. Very well done !
Tori Lennox Says:
I’ve never been to a Hindu wedding either. The strangest I’ve been to was more due to the priest having obviously had a wee bit too much to drink beforehand.
We kept wondering if he’d make through the whole wedding before keeling over. It was pretty funny in retrospect. 
Stephanie Says:
My husband is Hindu but we had a Christian wedding. The night of the wedding we had a party and I wore a sari… it was so much fun!
Glad you had a good time : )
Sue aka MsCreativity Says:
What wonderful photos. Looking forward to seeing more. I’ve no experiences of unusual weddings to share, unfortunately.
Sue
Nicole Reising Says:
I love the color! Its full of vibrant color! And dancing… I’m there with ya. I have often dreamed of being a great dancer but… alas, I’m not.
Cole
Rene Says:
My folks went to a Hindu wedding and had a blast. My mother was overwhelmed by the beauty of the saris. Plus everyone was so friendly and the food was great.
I’ve gone to very few weddings. None of them stick out in my mind much, even my own wedding is pretty vague.