Northeastern wedding rituals ( meghalaya )

​Wedding season is here again and like many communities in India, the wedding ceremonies of the seven sisters are beautiful and unique in its own way, elaborate and colourful.

Here are the compilation of the traditions and age old customs of matrimonial rituals of the seven sister states:

MEGHALAYA

Being of a matrilineal society, the beautiful union of matrimony between two people in Meghalaya has a different way in celebrating the joyous union.

The weddings are elaborate and unique. It is preceded only after the formal engagement of the couple which takes place at the bride’s home. There is no dowry system in this state. The rings are exchange in beetle nut bags and once the marriage ceremony is over, the groom moves to the bride’s ancestral home. Women are considered the sole custodian of wealth in the society and the couple and the children take the mother’s maiden name as their official surname.

Eashitha 🙂

Russian wedding rituals

In Russia’s distant past the ransom of the bride was a true folk theater performance full of national color. The bride’s family would block the road several times during the groom’s trip to the bride’s house. They would not let him pass until he demonstrated some of his talents. He could be tested on strength, intelligence and various other skills. For example, he could be asked to saw a log that is blocking the road or solve a riddle proposed by the bride’s family. If he failed any part of the test, he had to pay with coins or candies.

In modern-day Russia this ritual is usually performed on the way to the ZAGS department or on the groom’s trip to the bride’s house. The “setting up” of the ransom is conducted by the bridesmaid and the best man (called “witnesses” or svideteli). Today this custom is comprised of funny challenges for the groom, such as composing a poem for the bride, writing her name in rose petals, etc. Although this custom is light-hearted and fun, in certain Russian provinces a ransom literally means a ransom and occasionally passing by babushkas may block the road until the groom pays to pass through.

Wedding Loaf (Karavay)

The tradition of sharing a wedding loaf was borrowed from the ancient Romans. In addition to being a symbol of health and prosperity, karavay is also a way to find out who will be the head of the family. This is done by having the newlyweds each take a bit, without using their hands. Whoever takes the largest bite is considered to be the head of family. This tradition can be coupled with a champagne toast and the subsequent breaking of the glasses, which is considered good luck.

#Pavithra

The Vibrant Tribal South African Attires !

-Afrin

South African Weddings are Unique and Fun to be in, Usually filled with music and Cheerful Banter.

Another Unique aspect is in regard to their Wedding attires which vary from tribe to tribe.

The Fabrics vary from tribe to tribe as well and have traditional meanings.

The men from the Yoruba Tribe wears an Agbada a multi layered Kaftan and a Traditional cap called Fila, While the Women wear a head scarf called Gele and a Buba which is a blouse with an Iro which is a wrap-around.

The Zulu women wear Isidibha which Is a Leather skirt and Isicswaya which is a chest cover. The groom wears Ishimbadhu and Isinene.

While in the Igbo tribe, Women wear two George Wrappers while the men wear kaftans.

The bride and groom from the Ashanti Tribe wear a Kente Attire with jewelry made of beads.

The Efik tribe’s attire is quite distinct and Regal. The Bride wears an Awang and a Groom wears a Onyonyo

The Habesha Tribe’s Bride wears a Beautiful Conrow Design called the Albaso hairstye while the Groom goes all Kaftan. They both wear capes.

SOUTH AFRICAN WEDDING RITUALS

Egyptian weddings are often arranged at the engagement part a groom to be gives his bride to be a money known as Mahr. This money is used to buy jewelery called Shabka and furniture. The groom gives her a ring which she wears on her right hand. Before the wedding henna tattoos are applied on bride’s feet and hands.

The wedding starts with the performance of Zaffa music which involves traditional bendir drums, bagpipes, horns etc. The wedding ceremony is performed in mosque or church.

At the wedding feast the happy couple sits on Kosha chairs raised on a platform. Kofta meatballs and rose water drink called Sharpat are just two delicacies served at the wedding meal. In Egypt women pinch the bride on her wedding day. It means good luck.

At the wedding ceremony held by the Masai (Maasai) nation of Kenya the father of the bride blesses her by spitting on her head and breasts. Then she leaves with her husband. While walking to her new home she never looks back as she believes that she will turn to stone.

Swahilli nation of Kenya bathe bride in sandalwood oils and apply henna tattoos on her limbs. Somo or a woman elder instructs the bride how to satisfy her husband. The somo sometimes hides under the bed in case some unexpected problems appear.

#divya:)

wait till 30 !!! :)

Lately, I’ve been seeing news of (very) young people tying the knot on my Facebook feed. And while I certainly don’t condemn them for taking their oaths early (when you know, you know, I suppose), I can’t help but feel a little puzzled. What’s the hurry? Even if you do believe you’ve found your soul mate, it’s not as though there’s a shortage of marriage certifications and we’re stuck in a perpetual Black Friday of Weddings where you have to rush to get yours first.

There are obviously circumstances where it simply makes sense (like the girl I knew in college who married her military boyfriend when she was 19), but for the most part, I think it’s best to wait until both people are in a stable and settling stage in their lives. Some are ahead of schedule; others don’t discover that kind of security until they’ve hit their 30s. I talked to a few older women about the benefits of getting hitched in this particular decade, and here are the good things they had to say:

1. In your 30s, you’ve dated a lot, so you know exactly what you want from a partner and exactly what you don’t. When you meet someone, you know right away if you’re compatible.
2. Your wedding will probably have more of your friends than your parents’ friends.
3. You have done a lot of growing (and sowing your wild oats) already, so you don’t feel like you missed out.
4. You can have a relaxing spa weekend bachelorette (where everyone goes to bed after a late dinner and wine!) because your friends are either pregnant or have kids, so no one wants to go clubbing.
5. Humans live a lot longer now, so when you get married later, the rest of your life is still a freakishly long time to be with someone.
6. You’ve had time to figure out who you are as a grown-ass adult and choose a partner who makes sense with who you have become. This person also wants the same goals.
7. After partying and socializing in your 20s, you definitely appreciate quiet, married nights in.
8. You are more successful and further along in your career, so you can actually pay for all of if not part of your wedding — instead of relying on Mom and Dad.
9. You are sexually confident and know how to ask for what you want.
10. You’ve seen all of the mistakes your friends made (teal bridesmaids dresses? Seriously?) so you won’t make them, too.
11. If you throw a destination wedding, your 30-something-year-old friends can actually afford to go.
12. You already have a lot of kitchen and home goods, so you can register for more fun things.
13. You have had more time to travel.
14. When you marry in your 30s, you feel very independent, and you have a great bond with your partner because you don’t necessarily rely on each other for social circles.
15. You know who you are, and you don’t have to pretend to like bands you don’t or do things you don’t want to. You’re both comfortable in who you are.
16. Overall, it’s best to wait until you’ve fully discovered yourself.

#livya

Spain wedding rituals

Traditionally, the groom gives a watch to the bride’s father when his proposal is accepted.

Though some brides still uphold custom by embroidering their groom’s wedding shirt, today’s Spanish brides generally choose white wedding dresses for themselves rather than the black lace or silk gowns that were once popular.

No matter what color the dress, lacey mantillas secured with combs often complete the ensemble. In Andalucia (Andalusia), a few brides wear a frilled, flamenco style dress in homage to the distinctive regional dance.

Flower selections vary from region to region. In Seville (Sevilla), where richly-scented orange trees abound, brides wear orange blossom wreaths or carry generous bouquets to represent the promise and fulfillment of the orange tree.

Brides in Andalusia prefer pink and white rose garlands, while Castillian brides wear white flowers.

Because dining late is a Mediterranean custom, wedding ceremonies often aren’t scheduled until evening. According to tradition, the bride’s father escorts his daughter to the church after having ensured that the groom has not seen her the night before the ceremony. The groom’s mother walks down the aisle with her son.

Spanish wedding ceremonies are marked by an exchange of 13 gold coins in a special purse or box. Details of this custom vary from source to source, but even today it is readily possible to buy reproduction coins to honor the tradition.

Whether gold or imitation, these coins are blessed by the officiating priest. They are said to represent Jesus Christ and his apostles, so they not only have a religious connotation but also a practical one since they represent a dowry, a pledge of the new groom’s willingness to support his wife.

The bride and bridegroom exchange wedding rings as well. These are worn on the ring fingers of their right hands.

As they emerge from the church, the newlyweds are often greeted with firecrackers. Once the reception begins, the festivities continue into the night with dining and dancing.

The wedding dance is called “sequidillas manchegas.” Guests who dance with the bride, traditionally give her money, but pieces of the groom’s tie and/or the bride’s garter may also be auctioned off for good luck.

Though the Spanish bride throws her bouquet to whomever will be next to marry, she also hands out pins with a flower motif to unmarried ladies who attach them to their clothing upside down.

The hope is the pins will be lost during the dancing, and therefore indicate the lady will soon marry. Other favors for wedding guests are cigars for the gentlemen and something nicely scented for the ladies.

Area delicacies are always on the reception menu. Paella, a delicious seafood and rice stew, is popular along the coast while sangria, a red wine punch, is found at most Spanish gatherings. The wedding sponge cake is rich with fruit and almonds.

Whatever your heritage, consider adopting a custom or two from the rich culture of Spanish weddings.

#Pavithra

The Spanish Wedding Feast !

-Afrin

A Spanish wedding reception is no place for staunch dieters. From the appetizers to the assortment of meats to the wedding cookies, it’s time to eat, drink and be merry. “Vivan los novios,” or “Long live the newlyweds!”

 

Typically for the first hour after guests arrive at the reception, small plates containing fresh tapas are served by waiters. These Spanish appetizers are often accompanied by bread and olive oil. Tapas menus can include seafood delectables like garlic and chili prawns, marinated anchovies, calamari rings, mussels, and clams. Spicy Spanish chorizo sausages are also options.

Paella is a Spanish delicacy, and a seafood variety is usually presented at Spanish wedding feasts. Paella is a rice dish cooked in a specially made paella pan — a wide, low-rimmed pan, usually cast iron.  A seafood paella contains a mixture of prawns, mussels, squid, mixed fish pieces, and sometimes even lobster. The rice is normally seasoned with saffron, paprika and chili. Paella served as part of a buffet usually precedes the sit-down part of the wedding feast.

Whole roasted fish is a staple at most Spanish weddings. Popular types of fish for whole roasting include striped bass, grouper, snapper, or the flaky white fish, John Dory. Roasted fish served with vegetables and often accompanied by chorizo are shared between wedding guests.

For the sit-down portion of a Spanish wedding feast, grilled or fried fillets of meat are commonly served. Fillets of tender beef or veal are common, with tuna fillets for a seafood option.Accompaniments include salads like simple bean and tomato mixes or sautéed mushrooms.

Unlike traditional tiered wedding cakes, a Spanish wedding cake is in fact more like a flan — a flattish, tart-like cake. The cake is usually filled with fruits and nuts and sometimes custard.

FAMOUS FRENCH WEDDING.

Tosyn Bucknor and Aurélien Boyer got married on Sunday November 15th 2015 at Landmark Events Centre, Oniru.

The bride Tosyn is a much-loved radio host known as “area mama” by her fans. She is also a creative entrepreneur and poet. You can see her account of her wedding on her blog too.

The groom is a French engineer who works in Nigeria, and he loves the country so much, he now has a Yoruba name, Omowale, which means, “a child has come home”. 

The event – engagement and wedding reception all in one day, was planned and executed by the bride’s sister, Funke Bucknor-Obruthe CEO of Zapphaire Events with design by its sister company Decor by Furtullah.

Zapphaire Dream Events outdid themselves! French and Yoruba cultures were represented throughout the day, with Ekaabo and Bienvenue signs welcoming guests.

#divya:)

FAMOUS SPAIN WEDDING.

There’s a new royal couple in town. Lady Charlotte Anne Wellesley of the United Kingdom married Colombian-American financier Alejandro Santo Domingo in Illoro, Spain on Saturday, May 28 — and looked absolutely stunning doing so.

The bride wore a breathtaking white wedding dress to her Spanish nuptials, giving us major princess #bridegoals when it comes to the royal wedding circle’s outfit ensembles. While not actually a princess — she’s close enough. Wellesley is a descendant of Queen Victoria (by way of her mother) and the daughter of the 9th Duke of Wellington (her father’s ancestor defeated Napoleon at Waterloo in 1815).Her husband is a Columbian-American financier, Harvard graduate, and philanthropist in his home country of Colombia.

The long-sleeve, off-the-shoulder white Emilia wickstead ball gownwas definitely a showstopper — showing that it’s perfectly acceptable to have a modern take on royal weddings. Her hair was parted and swirled into an elegant low-bun chignon. Her cathedral veil was adorned with a Swiss dot pattern, and she wore it over her head as she entered the Church of Incarnation. While she had ladies in waiting catering to her every need, the photo below definitely shows that like real brides, even royalty can have wedding day snafus — the wind just doesn’t care whether you’re nobility or not.

The couple exchanged vows in a Catholic ceremony and then hosted a reception for over 200 guests at the Duke’s picturesque country estate.

#divya:)

AGE AND DIVORCE

The data further shows that Muslim women in the age group of 20-34 were most likely to be divorced, with the divorce rate highest among women of all communities in the age group. Almost 44 per cent of the total divorced Muslim women belong to the age group 20 to 34, it says, adding that the age group constitutes 24 per cent of the total Muslim population.

The figures, however, do not point to liberation of Muslim women, but instead indicate their victimisation due to the regressive practice of ‘triple talaq’, also known as arbitrary divorce, which has been prevalent in India and has created much furore.

The Census data shows that the refined divorce rate – the number of divorces per 1,000 marriages – was 5.63 for Muslim women, which is much more the national average of 3.10.

Meanwhile, the refined divorce rate for Buddhist and Christian women was even higher than Muslims – 6.73 and 5.67 respectively. On the other hand, the refined divorce rate for Hindu women only 2.60, lower than the national average.

The Census figures included about 13.2 lakh divorced individuals in India, out of which 9.09 lakh (68 per cent) are women, while only 4.5 lakh (32 per cent) are men.

Among men, Buddhists and Christians have a higher divorce rate than Muslim men. While Buddhist men have a divorce rate of 3.0 per 1,000 marriages and Christian men 2.92 per 1,000, Muslim men have a much lower divorce rate of 1.6 per 1,000 marriages.

These figures suggest that men are likely to remarry at a far quicker rate than women as they do not want to stay divorced for long.

 

#LIVYA