Shādi in the Family

Last week we enjoyed a shaadi in the family. It was a magnificent production over four days, amidst the beautiful rolling hills of upstate South Carolina. And yes, it was a respite from the Fall here, to greenery, well manicured, lush lawns and Southern hospitality.

And what a great occasion for a family reunion! For four days we reveled in family panchadika (chit-chat), gorged on a wide variety of indian dishes (no dish was repeated over four days!) and the reception had a teeth chattering, gut expanding array of 28 desserts!

Of course, on returning to gray skies and cafeteria goop we are clinically depressed. I want my masala dosa and south indian kaapi for breakfast!

So, here are a few pics.

During one of the pre-wedding services, the women in the house are getting ready to bless the bride. The priests says: ashta putra sowbhagyavati bhava and translates it: May you be a blessed mother of eight children. My cousin sister lets out a hearty laugh!


During the actual blessing!

During the Raas garba on the night before the wedding, the couple are treated to dance performances. Then everyone joins in and the dancing went on till the early hours of the morning.

During the wedding services, the couple search for a ring in a pot of colored water! Apparently whoever finds the ring, dominates the relationship. The well priest had put two rings in the pot and each found one! And they lived happily ever after. 🙂

At the end of the service, after satisfying everyone with photographs, the bride steps out of the mantap.