Lifestyles: Indian weddings – let us not be too quick to trash them

Let us not be too harsh on Indian parents – if they are spending the cash, they damn well have a right to invite whoever they want! It is not as if the couple getting married is not allowed to invite their own friends.

An Indian wedding is a culmination of the parents’ dreams.The sendoff of their daughter, or the welcoming of a daughter-in law, marks a milestone in their lives. Parents have changed diapers, dolled and spruced their kids, and sent them to school and college – all in preparation of this big day. How many times have we been told what will make us a good husband or wife?

They have also saved all their lives for this big day. This is when they make lists of all the events and occasions they’ve been invited to and how much “Shagan” (a customary monetary gift) they have given out. It is their chance to return favours, to rally everyone they have known in their life around their joyous occasion.

Indian weddings are full of vibrant colours, sumptuous food and dancing and music. As well, any interracial wedding I have attended lately has followed Indian traditions. Who in their right mind would say no to parents spending the cash, as well as strangers pouring cash in your lap in the form of Shagan? If either of the couple is Indian, you can bet your chances, most of the events will be Indian style.

Some Indian youngsters are choosing destination weddings to have a different setting and also to shaft the guests in half. As a guest, it is a lot more expensive to travel and book accommodations than fork out a little bit of Shagan. So only the very close family members and friends will make it to that.

I personally like Indian weddings with all their fanfare. I agree sometimes we forget that they are for the bride and groom but it is such a great place for meeting up with long-lost relatives, friends and acquaintances. They keep me connected to my family and community, which oddly helps me belong better in the big wide world.

Manpreet Grewal is a freelance writer. She will invite many of her friends and family to daughter Raymon’s wedding – whenever it happens.

Tags: Shagan, weddings