In this section we'll give you a brief overview on the various stages of our wedding. Yes, it will last more than one day (especially if you are part of the inner family circle), but we decided to not go "all in" and limited the events to take place over merely 4 days!
In an intimate outdoor lawn ceremony, the couple will exchange their personal vows. The exchange of wedding bands and the legal registration of their marriage will solidify their union, as husband and wife. This special occasion will be followed by a celebratory indoor lunch reception.
Given the warm Singapore summer and the location of the event, do come in something short, light and breezy. Ladies you may want to have your summer hats in hand, men your sunglasses!
The start of the Indian festivities is marked with the Maiya ceremony. Family and friends of the bride will partake in this cultural ceremony to bless her for the festivities ahead. As traditional folksong is sung, oil will be sprinkled on her hair, yoghurt applied to her face and turmeric rubbed into her arms - to beautify her by traditional means.
Cultural outfits are usually worn during this event. The more colourful the better! If you choose to come in western wear, do dress decently for this humble cultural home event.
The Indian wedding is not only about rituals and customs rather it is also full of several fun filled events. One such would be the pre-wedding gathering called the sangeet. An evening of song and dance, as the couple celebrate their union (to be) with all who are close and dear to their hearts. Come in your dancing shoes and an apetite to boot - it will be an evening of Indian vibrancy!
This is the part where you dress up in all of your finest silks and stones! Women come in your loveliest sarees or flowiest of suits, with all the jewelry you own! Men put on your charming kurtas or a bandi for an indo-western look! If you opt for the western outfit, do come in formal wear in which you can still Bhangra the night away!
The Maiya ceremony held for the groom is just as special as that of the bride‘s. Family and friends of the groom will partake in this cultural ceremony to bless him for the festivities ahead. As traditional folksong is sung, oil will be sprinkled on his hair, yoghurt applied to his face and turmeric rubbed into his arms - to beautify him by traditional means. The mother of the groom then leaves her palm print on the outer wall of the home - signifying that a marriage is soon to come!
Cultural outfits are usually worn during this event. The more colourful the better! A simple option would be to wear a kurta top (for men) or a kurti top (for women) with a pair of good jeans. If you choose to come in western wear, do dress decently for this humble cultural home event.
The main event of the series - the actual wedding day has arrived! Anand Karaj directly translates into "Blissful Union" and this spiritual ceremony takes place in the Sikh place of worship called the Gurduwara. The couple will walk four times around the Sikh holy book, as the four lavan (marriage vows) are sung. The couple is now seen in the eyes of God, sangat and their families as husband and wife. After the ceremony, langar (food) is served.
Come festively indian - bright and colourful! As a general rule of thumb avoid the colours white, black and full red (bridal). The typical desi punjabi outfit would be the salwar kameez. Given the religious setting, avoid revealing outfits. Your outfit would be less extravagant than the party wear on Friday night, but still festive!
Gurduwara Etiquette:
Heads must be covered - women may use their dupatta (outfit scarf) or a scarf of any sort. Men can tie a turban or use a large hankerchief or bandana. Shoes will also have to be removed when in the gurduwara. For this religious event avoid bare shoulders, plunging necklines and short skirts - you will sit cross-legged on the floor so do wear something comfortable and non-revealing when prostrating.
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