Kashmirs Wedding


INTRODUCTION

Kashmir is known as "Paradise on Earth", the land of beautiful valleys and snow-clad mountain peaks, stretching plains with flowerbeds and frizzy air. The Kashmiri society has more affinity with the societies of India rather than the other Himalayan people. Structurally, the society is complex and generally stratified and there is a caste system. There is an unique language adhered to the people i.e. the Kashmiri language. Kashmir has a different tradition altogether - the folk-lore, dress, traditions and cuisine. The people are warm and the families are close-knitted. The emphasis is on brotherhood and peace

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MARRIAGE THROUGH THE AGES

Kashmir form a distinct cultural and ethnic group - effervescent, elaborate and easy-going yet. This characteristic trend is reflective in their marriages as well. It is the state perhaps with the maximum number of customs and rituals. And to be odd enough, these rituals are more of a enjoyable nature rather than the orthodox type. A Kashmiri marriage also gives opportunities to all the relatives to enjoy and participate in it substantially.

MATCH MAKING

For the Kashmir, matchmaking is a detailed procedure, wherein match is found by spreading the news that somebody wishes to marry off his daughter or son. Rishte (matches) start pouring in for the prospective bride or groom then. Matching of horoscopes (janam kundlis or teknis) is traditionally a necessity.

COSTUMES

Bridal Wear

The bridal dress is very elaborate for the Kashmiri girls. The bride has to wear a headwear, which consists of a long cap called Kalpush. The cap is folded two to three times and lined with either silk or cotton from inside A belt about two meters long and one-and-a-half meters wide, known as the Haligandun, with its loose ends embroidered, is tied to the waist of the bride.

Groom's Attire

Kashmiri groom usually wears a pheran and the waistband. Other add-ons include a sword at his waistband and local embroidered shoes (paazar) at feet. Custom has it that the groom's eldest paternal uncle (chacha) ties the turban for him, known as the gordastar with a golden thread called dov.