How to Include Traditional Indian Elements in Your Big Day
Indian weddings are some of the most meaningful and colorful ceremonies in the world. Rich traditions, vibrant colors, sumptuous cuisine and a wide range of rituals make Indian weddings an unforgettable experience. However, if you are planning a traditional Indian wedding, there are many different elements to consider. From decorations to attire, food to music – there is so much that goes into making your special day as authentic as possible.
In this article, we will be looking at a few ways you can incorporate traditional Indian elements into your big day.
Outfit:
The most important part of any traditional Indian wedding is the bride’s outfit. Sarees or lehengas are typically chosen for their beauty and elegance– but make sure they feature intricate embroidery and beading, which are common adornments found in traditional Indian apparel. For grooms, a Sherwani or an Achkan is the preferred choice of attire – these garments are traditionally made from fabrics like silk, velvet and rich brocade.
Decorations:
When it comes to decorations for a traditional Indian wedding, vibrant colors are key. Think bright pinks, oranges and reds as they are all popular choices for weddings in India. Flowers play an important role during the ceremony too – so make sure you pick out some beautiful flower arrangements that match your outfit perfectly! You can also add in elements such as Diyas (traditional oil lamps) and silk fabric to create a truly authentic atmosphere.
Food:
Indian weddings are well known for their sumptuous feasts – and traditional Indian cuisine is the perfect way to go. From curries to biryanis, there are so many delicious dishes to choose from. You should also consider adding in some sweet treats such as jalebis, gulab jamuns and rasmalai. These desserts offer a unique taste of India that your guests will be sure to enjoy!
Music:
As with any wedding celebration, music plays an important role too. Traditional Indian music can help to set the tone for the event and get everyone into a celebratory mood. Bollywood songs are always popular choices – but you could also look into playing slower-paced folk tunes from different regions of India. This could include anything from Rajasthani folk music to Tamil songs – whatever you choose, make sure it has a distinctly Indian feel that encapsulates the culture and atmosphere of your wedding day.
Rituals:
Indian weddings are famous for their meaningful rituals, which hold great significance in the culture. Depending on your religion and region, these could range from exchange of garlands to tying of the Mangalsutra (thali) or even a Havan ceremony. Make sure you research which rituals are appropriate for your wedding and discuss them with your family so that you can include all the traditional elements that are important to you.
Prayers:
Prayer is an integral part of any Indian wedding – and offering prayers to God before embarking upon a new journey is considered essential in Hindu culture. During the marriage ceremony, the couple usually kneels down before the sacred fire and offer prayers to seek blessings from the Almighty. This is one of the most significant rituals that takes place during an Indian wedding and should not be miss out!
Guest Gifts:
Traditionally, Indian weddings involve giving away small gifts to guests as a token of appreciation. These could include items like sweets, dry fruits or even small pieces of jewelry. You can also give away other traditional favors such as hand-painted bindis, mini tassels or incense sticks – this will help your guests to remember your special day for a long time.
Entertainment:
No Indian wedding celebration is complete without some form of entertainment – whether it’s folk dancing or game shows. Make sure you plan out activities that everyone can participate in and enjoy together. This could include traditional dances, musical performances or even fun competitions. This will help to keep your guests engaged throughout the day and make your wedding one to remember!
Conclusion:
Indian weddings are full of vibrant colors, traditions, and rituals that make them truly unique and memorable occasions. By incorporating traditional elements such as clothing, decorations, food, and music into your special day, you can create an experience that is truly authentic and unforgettable. With these tips in mind, we wish you the best of luck with planning your perfect Indian wedding!