Exploring Pakistan's wedding traditions
What's the story
Pakistan's weddings are a colorful and extravagant affair that showcase the country's vibrant cultural tapestry.
Lasting multiple days, these celebrations are filled with various rituals and traditions that differ from region to region and family to family.
Here, we explore five unique customs that are integral to Pakistani weddings, providing a peek into the jubilant festivities that accompany this momentous occasion.
Mehndi
The colorful mehndi ceremony
The Mehndi ceremony is the highlight of any Pakistani wedding.
Held a day or two before the main wedding day, it centers around the tradition of applying intricate henna designs on the bride's hands and feet.
Marked by lively music, dance performances, and guests dressed in vibrant colors, it provides an opportunity for both families to interact and celebrate together.
Dowry
Bridal dowry: A tradition of gifts
Dowry is a huge part of Pakistani weddings, with the bride's family giving a ton of gifts to the groom's side.
This can range from clothes and jewelry to stuff for the house, and even cars or property sometimes.
Even though people's views on dowries are getting more modern, this tradition is still a big part of a lot of weddings all over Pakistan.
Baraat
The ritual of baraat
Baraat is the groom's procession that arrives at the bride's residence or the location where the wedding will be conducted.
Joined by his family and friends in a celebratory procession (often with music and dancing), this tradition represents the joining of two families.
He typically arrives in a decorated car or a horse-drawn carriage.
Nikah
Nikah: The Islamic marriage contract
At the heart of every Muslim wedding in Pakistan lies the sacred Nikah ceremony - the solemn signing of an Islamic marriage contract by the bride and groom, witnessed by representatives from both sides.
This deeply spiritual commitment solidifies their union under Islamic law.
The ceremony is infused with the recitation of beautiful Quranic verses, culminating in heartfelt prayers for their shared journey ahead.
Walima
Walima: The grand reception
Walima is a grand reception held by the groom's family after all the wedding ceremonies, including Nikah, have concluded.
It serves as the couple's official declaration of their marriage to society, welcoming extended family members who may not have attended the other ceremonies to join the celebration with the newlyweds.
People are offered luxurious meals, highlighting the communal sharing and joy that accompanies this celebration.