A Beginners Guide to Pakistani Muslim Weddings:

Like the rest of us stuck at home, I have been reminiscing of a time when we were allowed outside freely. When looking through my photo album for the 100th time this week, I found pictures of a recent wedding that I had attended, and I decided to give people a basic rundown of the events in a Pakistani wedding.

Dholki: This is part of a series of pre-wedding traditions. Friends and family of both the bride and groom gather (separately or together in one big event) to sing traditional songs and dance. A dholak drum is normally played.

Mehndi: This usually for the bride and, intricate henna designs are applied on to her hands and feet. The other women and girls apply henna, but in a more simple pattern than the bride. Both sides bring the henna along with some bangles and sweets for the other party.

Nikkah: This is the official marriage ceremony. With the Nikkah papers signed, the couple are legally and religiously married.  

Baraat: This is a wedding procession led by the groom’s side to the venue (where the bride normally is waiting). The groom’s side usually create a grand procession with a band, dhol drummers and dances whilst on their way to the venue. At the end of this event (after food has been served) the bride leaves her family to live with the groom and his family. This is usually an emotional affair.

Walima: This is the reception and is hosted by the groom’s side. This is essentially the couple’s first public appearance together after their marriage. The groom’s side holds a ‘feast’ for the guests in honour of his new marriage.

These weddings are becoming grander day by day. These guide should help you if you ever find yourself in one of these weddings with no idea of what is going on.

Shanzay Yousaf