There are different wedding traditions based on different places and communities. Read on to know more about them!
From Ketubah to elopement Know the meanings of these global wedding traditions | Credit: Unsplash
New Delhi: Weddings are a universal celebration of love and commitment, but every place and community has its own unique rituals and ceremonies that reflect their cultural values, traditions, and beliefs. From the grand multi-day events of Indian weddings, complete with vibrant dances and intricate rituals, to the intimate and symbolic handfasting in Celtic ceremonies, each culture brings its own distinct flavor to the occassion.
Different wedding traditions around the world
1. Handfasting (Celtic Tradition)
- Meaning: A symbolic ritual where the couple’s hands are bound together with a ribbon or cord, representing their union. This practice is often seen in Celtic, Pagan, or Wiccan ceremonies and symbolizes the couple’s commitment to each other.
2. Phera (Indian Wedding Ritual)
- Meaning: A Hindu wedding ritual where the bride and groom walk around the sacred fire (Agni) seven times, each round signifying a vow they make to one another for a happy and harmonious married life.
3. Baraat (Indian Wedding Procession)
- Meaning: The groom’s procession to the wedding venue, usually accompanied by friends, family, music, and dancing. The groom often arrives on a horse, elephant, or in a decorated car.
4. Nikah (Islamic Wedding Ceremony)
- Meaning: The Islamic wedding ceremony where a contract is signed by both the bride and groom, and vows are exchanged in the presence of witnesses, signifying the couple’s union in the eyes of Islamic law.
5. Bridal Shower (Western Tradition)
- Meaning: A pre-wedding party organized for the bride, usually by her close friends or family, where she receives gifts and well-wishes in preparation for her new life as a wife.
6. Trousseau (French Origin)
- Meaning: The personal possessions and wardrobe that a bride assembles before her wedding. This often includes clothing, lingerie, and accessories she will take to her new home.
7. Garter Toss (Western Tradition)
- Meaning: A Western wedding tradition where the groom removes the bride’s garter and tosses it to the single men in attendance. The one who catches it is believed to be the next to marry.
8. Huppah/Chuppah (Jewish Wedding Tradition)
- Meaning: A canopy under which a Jewish couple stands during their wedding ceremony. It symbolizes the home the couple will build together.
9. Ketubah (Jewish Tradition)
- Meaning: A traditional Jewish marriage contract that outlines the groom’s responsibilities to the bride. It’s often beautifully designed and becomes a keepsake for the couple.
10. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue (Western Tradition)
- Meaning: A custom where the bride incorporates four symbolic items into her wedding attire. “Something old” represents continuity, “something new” symbolizes optimism, “something borrowed” stands for borrowed happiness, and “something blue” represents fidelity.
11. Roka (Indian Engagement Ceremony)
- Meaning: A pre-wedding ritual in North Indian weddings where the bride and groom’s families formally agree to the marriage. Gifts and blessings are exchanged, marking the official start of wedding preparations.
12. Mehendi (Indian Wedding Tradition)
- Meaning: A ceremony where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet, symbolizing joy and love. It’s a festive and artistic pre-wedding ritual in Indian culture.
13. Jumping the Broom (African-American Tradition)
- Meaning: A tradition rooted in African culture, where the couple jumps over a broom to symbolize sweeping away the old and stepping into a new life together. It’s often seen in African-American weddings today.
14. Elopement
- Meaning: A small, private wedding where the couple marries in secret or with very few guests, often bypassing a traditional large ceremony.
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