Indian weddings are famous for their traditions and rituals, which start a few days before the wedding. The tradition symbolises that the wedding is not just the union between two souls but also the coming together of families and communities. The ceremonies include different rituals that have been coming forward for generations.
In London, Indian weddings include a blend of traditional and a cosmopolitan city vibe. This Indo-western fusion makes the weddings unique and memorable for everyone involved.
The Destination
Venue is the most crucial thing when anyone discusses weddings and when it comes to London, the options are endless. From a luxurious hotel to a simple garden, the city has some amazing venues to suit every couple’s taste. Popular venues including The Dorchester, The Savoy, and the Waldorf Hilton offer exquisite settings for an unforgettable celebration. If you want to find something unique, places like Kew Gardens or the Natural History Museum provide stunning backdrops and magic to every celebration.
All about Traditions
Pre-Wedding Rituals
The pre-wedding rituals are an integral part of Indian weddings. The excitement begins with the engagement ceremony, followed by the mehndi, sangeet nights and haldi.
Mehndi Night
This is one of the most fun-filled events, where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet. It’s a night of music, dance, and joyous celebrations with family and friends.
Sangeet Night
This is essentially a musical evening where both families come together for a night of performances, singing, and dancing battles. It’s a great way for families to bond before the big day.
Haldi Day
In this ritual, a turmeric paste is made and applied to the groom and bride before the wedding. The ritual is followed for a long time and it is known that it helps to keep evil spirits away from the bride and groom.
The Wedding Day
The wedding day itself is a grand affair, filled with various ceremonies that hold deep significance.
Baraat
The groom’s procession, known as the baraat, is a lively and colourful event. The groom arrives on a decorated horse or in a luxury car, accompanied by his family and friends dancing to the beat of the dhol.
Mandap Ceremony
The main wedding ceremony takes place under a beautifully decorated mandap. Here, the couple performs rituals like the pheras (circling the sacred fire) and the exchange of garlands, signifying their vows to each other.
Capturing the Moments
One of the most important aspects of any wedding is capturing the moments that will be cherished forever. Asian wedding photography is a specialised field that focuses on the unique aspects of Indian weddings.
Photographers skilled in Indian marriage photography understand the importance of the various ceremonies and know how to capture the emotions, colours, and tiny details that make these weddings so special. From candid shots of the bride and groom to detailed images of the decor and attire, these photographers ensure that every moment is beautifully documented.
The Attire
Indian wedding attire is renowned for its vibrant colours and exquisite embellishments. The bride typically wears a heavy lehenga or saree, while the groom dons a sherwani or a tailored suit.
In London, couples often incorporate both traditional and contemporary elements into their attire. Designers like Sabyasachi, Manish Malhotra, and Tarun Tahiliani are popular choices for brides looking to make a statement with their wedding outfits. The groom’s attire is equally important, with many opting for custom-made suits that reflect their personal style while honouring their heritage.
A Culinary Journey
The most lavish part of the wedding has to be the food section. The menu is what people will remember for years. Looking at India’s delightful meals, different weddings will have different food. There are different caterers you will find in London to help you design a mouth-watering menu (energy is all you need after crazy dance steps). From starters to the main course, everything can be authentic.
Keeping the Party Alive
Attending a wedding seems to be an escape from the daily hectic schedule. All the guests expect entertainment and it is indeed a crucial part of Indian Weddings. From live bands to DJs to traditional dancers and performers, there are plenty of options to keep the guests entertained.
You can look up Bollywood performers, who are always hit, Punjabi singers, and even choreographers who can help you win the dance battle on your sangeet night.
Key Takeaways
Indian Weddings in London are a beautiful blend of tradition, culture and modernity. The celebration includes love, not just between the couples but also between two different families. With some amazing venues, awestruck ceremonies, traditional attire, and delicious food, the weddings help us create memories that will last forever.
For those Planning a wedding in London, it is important to select a service provider who knows about the cultural significance and can deliver an experience that reflects your unique style and heritage. Whether it is a perfect venue or hiring experts in Asian Wedding photography, attention to every detail is key to making your dream wedding a reality. So, Happy Wedding!