Great Destination Weddings

When we received an unexpected invitation from our friends, Ashwini

and Landon to attend their wedding in India, we hesitated at first –

uncertain about whether we even wanted to visit India. Spurred on by

some friends who had regretfully declined an invitation to an Indian

wedding, we realised we didn’t want to miss what would no doubt be a

once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In India, certain times of the year are considered more auspicious for

getting married – and during this “wedding season”, marriages are

prolific. Unlike conventional Western weddings, Indian weddings

are filled with rituals, traditions and celebrations lasting several days.

When we arrive in India, wedding season is in full swing and a whirl-

wind week of exotic sights, sounds and tastes begins – immersed in

Hindu tradition, entrenched in generous hospitality and surrounded by

gregarious international friends.

As we disembark at Hyderabad International airport amid masses of

people, we’re warmly greeted by Ashwini and Landon. Our friend,

Ashwini and her American fiancee, Landon met while working in

America. It was their decision to marry, which is less common in India

than in Western countries, as many marriages are still traditionally

arranged by families.

Hyderabad is a city of vibrancy, noise, colour and chaos with people,

tuk tuks, cars, trucks, cows, dogs and the odd pig all vying for space on

congested roads, intermingling and crowding narrow streets. But we

found it to be surprisingly seductive and immensely fascinating.

We’re housed with some other wedding guests in an apartment

provided by the bride’s family. We bond quickly and never for a

moment feel alone in this very different culture. Each day is planned

for us, packed with activities and functions to attend.

Day 1: Before the Wedding

Our first day is spent visiting a local shopping centre in search of saris

for two of my new friends to wear to the wedding. It’s fascinating to see

the customs and glamour associated with this traditional Indian costume.

Watching metres of shimmering fabric being delicately fashioned into

an elegant gown gives me a sense of awe. Now when I see sari-clad

women, I marvel at their skill in assembling such a garment. That evening,

family and friends gather at a local five-star hotel for a sumptuous Indian

smorgasboard, compliments of the bride and groom.

Day 2: Ceremonial Shower

and Henna Ceremony

On the second day we attend Landon’s ceremonial shower, which is

held at a lush spa resort. The ceremony is officiated by a Hindu priest

and takes place on an outdoor platform decorated with fresh, brightly

coloured orchids, roses and marigolds. Landon is adorned with floral

garlands and dressed in traditional white Indian trousers, a long jacket

and a beige waistcoat. During the ceremony, he’s pasted with turmeric

powder, showered with rice, and dusted with many different coloured

powders – he resembles a living rainbow by the end of it! Guests

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF PAULENE JOSLIN