What sets India apart from the rest of the world is its cultural diversity. With each state having its own culture, it would not be surprising that they have their own unique yet strange (and funny) wedding traditions. Below we list down some of the most bizarre wedding traditions in India that would leave you surprised and amused, at the same time.
Marrying the bride to a tree
Very prevalent mainly in the northern states, a Manglik bride is married to a tree in order to ward off the evil effects of planet Mars and ensuring the long life of her husband. That way in case the bride’s first husband, the said tree, would bear the brunt of any ill will that Mars bears towards her husband.
Marrying the tree to get rid of ill effects of Mars
Welcome by tomatoes
In a small town of Uttar Pradesh called Sasural, the groom’s side is welcomed by hurling tomatoes at them. It is considered that a relationship which starts on an unhappy note always grows into love and last longer.
Band Baja Baaraat!
Kasi Yaatrai
Kasi Yaatrai is followed by the Tamil Brahmins of South India. Just before the actual marriage, groom has to pretend that he has changed his mind regarding the marriage and is going for sanyasam (ascetic life). Bride’s father has to convince him to marry the bride and choose family life instead. Hmmm.
A typical South Indian wedding!
Pot Balancing
In the curious tradition of pot balancing from the Indian state of Bihar, several earthen pots are stacked up one over the other on the head of the bride as she bows down to take the blessings of her in-laws. Number of pots balanced indicates how skillful the bride will be at maintaining the balance in the family.
Litmus test of a good bride !
Releasing fish in the bowl
This custom comes from the Indian state of Manipur. Post the marriage, ladies from both the sides release a pair of fish into the water, with the fishes symbolizing the bride and groom. It is considered to be a good omen if both fishes move side by side. Quite gutsy to leave the fate of ones marriage to the moods of fish.
A typical Manipuri wedding!
