In my country mariages are celebrated on a grand scale. Preparations are made months before the actual day. A lot of money is spent on garments, ornaments and feasts. Sometimes a man has to spend more than he can afford to keep his family pride.
10th May was the wedding day of my sister. My father who is a Govt. servant took leave for one month. My father and mother used to go to Chandni Chowk or some other market daily. They purchased lot of households to be given to my sister. My father and mother used to hold consultations with my uncle, aunt and other relatives. Shamianas, lights and crockery were hired in advance. Invitation cards were got printed and sent to all relatives and friends.
Many relatives arrived a day earlier. The ‘Halwai started preparing sweets. Our house hummed with activity. My father and mother looked very busy. Shamianas were fixed on the road. Chairs and tabels were arranged. A temporary gate was also fixed up. The guests stood at the gate to receive the marriage party. The marriage procession was well within sight. Some young members of the marriage party were performing the ‘Bhangra’, the band was playing on. The bridegroom was riding on mare and a man held the ‘Chhatar’ over his head. The bridegroom looked like a prince.
The ‘baraat’ was received at the gate. The members of the mariage party were garlanded. After few ceremonies the members of the party were served with dinner. Latest film songs were played. Multicoloured electrice bulbs decorated our house.
At night the marriage ceremony was performed by the priest. My sister and brother-in-law went round the sacred fire. My sister was decorated like a doll. Next day the ‘doli’ left in the morning. There were tears in the eyes of my father, mother and sister and mine too.
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