Muslim culture is known for its unique traditions and strong sense of community and family. Muslim weddings are conducted under the framework of Muslim Personal Law, which ensures that both parties enter the marriage freely and willingly. The ceremony, known as Nikah, is a contractual agreement that involves the reading of Quranic verses by a Maulvi, who formally asks for the groom's proposal and the bride’s acceptance. The bride also agrees to a pre-decided dowry amount during this ceremony, called Ijab-e-Qubul, which is witnessed by two people.
A traditional Muslim wedding is celebrated with great enthusiasm, often spanning five days, and can take place at either the bride's or groom's residence or at another venue. The festivities include several rituals that allow the families to entertain and enjoy the presence of their guests.
At Exotic Indian Weddings, we fully understand the customs and rituals involved in Indian weddings, and the intricate variations in how these ceremonies are performed. Our wedding planners expertly handle every aspect of the event, from choosing wedding venues to curating a menu that complements the wedding style. We can also assist with sourcing the finest costumes and jewelry.
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Pre-Wedding Rituals
Legan Chir: As soon as the wedding is fixed, the groom’s father sends a cash gift to the bride’s father, marking the start of the wedding celebrations.
Mangni (Engagement): The exchange of rings takes place in this ceremony. In accordance with Muslim customs, the couple is not allowed to meet privately after this engagement until the wedding.
Day 1 & Day 2 Ceremonies: On these days, the bride’s relatives visit the groom’s house and vice versa, each bringing plates of mehendi (henna paste). Children light candles as a sign of joy, and the celebrations include dinner, singing, and playful teasing of the couple.
Manjha Ceremony: On the third day, turmeric paste (haldi) is applied to the bride by the groom’s family. The bride wears yellow clothing for this ceremony. A married friend of the bride spreads the haldi on her, and the bride is accompanied by her friend everywhere afterward. This day is filled with singing and festive energy.
Mehendi Ceremony: This ritual, which takes place a day or two before the wedding, involves applying mehendi to the bride’s hands and feet. It is a lively occasion with dancing and singing. After the ceremony, the bride is not permitted to leave her house before the wedding.
Arrival of the Groom: The groom arrives at the venue with a procession of friends and relatives, typically on horseback or in a decorated car, accompanied by music and the beating of drums. Upon arrival, he exchanges a sweet drink (sharbet) and money with the bride’s brother. The bride's sisters humorously welcome the groom and his guests by playfully hitting them with flower-wrapped sticks.
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Wedding Ceremony
Nikah: The Muslim wedding ceremony takes place with the bride and groom sitting separately, sometimes behind a curtain, though in some cases, they may be in the same room. The groom’s family and elders decide the meher, a mandatory monetary gift given by the groom to the bride. The Maulvi reads Quranic verses and asks the bride for her consent to marry the groom and accept the meher. Once she agrees, the groom is asked for his consent. The marriage contract, Nikah-nama, is then read aloud to the groom, who also provides his consent. The document is signed by the couple, witnesses, and the Maulvi.
Following this, the groom joins the bride's family to offer gifts to the bride’s sisters and receive blessings from the elder women. A grand meal follows. After the meal, the couple sits together, their heads covered with a long scarf, as the priest guides them in prayer. They then view each other’s reflection in a mirror with the Holy Quran placed between them. Dried dates and a sweet dish are served to the guests.
On the wedding night, the groom stays in the bride’s younger brother’s room, separate from the bride. The next morning, the bride’s parents offer gifts, money, and clothes to the groom.
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Post-Wedding Ceremony
Rukshat: This ceremony marks the emotional farewell of the bride from her parental home. The parents entrust her hand to the groom, asking him to care for their daughter.
Valimah: A grand reception held at the groom’s house, where a large feast is served. This event allows the families and guests of both sides to come together and celebrate the marriage.
Chauthi: Four days after the wedding, the bride is expected to visit her parental home for a family gathering and to spend time with her relatives.
A Muslim wedding is a blend of deep-rooted traditions, heartfelt rituals, and joyous celebrations, where the essence of love and commitment is honored with every ceremony.