nikah wedding

Also known as Nikaah, the Muslim ceremony is often celebrated with the characteristic splendor that is customary for Indo-Asian weddings. Witnesses and religious advisors from both parties, the bride and groom, are invited to complete this event. During this ceremony, the bride, groom and key people sign a legal contract known as Nikaahnama.

wedding mehndi

Celebrations often begin with the Mehndi ceremony, where the bride-to-be has henna applied to her hands and feet as a decorative pattern. The guests are all close friends and family. The celebrations usually continue into the night with songs and dances performed by the guests.

wedding baraat

The royal wedding begins with the musical ceremony known as Baraat to announce the arrival of the groom. Their heads are covered with a bridal duputta and prayers are read. During this ritual, a copy of the Qur’an is placed between the bride and groom and the couple can only look at each other through mirrors.

wedding pranks

It is common practice for girls on the bride’s side to play jokes on the groom’s side during parts of the ceremony.

Rukhsati Wedding

The event where the bride leaves the wedding venue, usually a banquet or hall with her husband, is called rukhsati. The mother-in-law then welcomes the bride to the parental home of her groom, who holds the Qur’an above her head as she crosses the threshold.

Valima Wedding

The Valimah is a welcoming party organized by the groom’s side. Intended as a gesture to welcome the bride to the family.