Jammu and Kashmir Matrimony

The magnificent locales of the state of Jammu and Kashmir opens up a treasure trove of splendid cultural delights. The state whose tranquility has recently been disturbed by the militancy attacks abounds in cultural extravaganzas. One of the biggest cultural draws of the state is the quintessential Jammu and Kashmir Matrimony.

Jammu and Kashmir Matrimony brings about a whiff of freshness in the lives of the local inhabitants who today live in the mortal fear of terrorist attacks. A marriage is not only an auspicious social ceremony, it is one of the most important celebrations that fills the people's social calender.

In earlier days, a typical Jammu and Kashmir Matrimony would span across several days. Today although the duration of the festivities are much shorter, the pomp and grandeur is by no means any less. The marriage ceremony commences with the Thap or the much awaited first meeting where the knight in shining armor has a rendezvous his pretty damsel. These meetings are usually organized by the family members in a public venue which may either be a dargah or any of the moghul gardens. This is done in order to prevent any social embarrassment if the meeting does not culminate with future hopes. If the meeting is fruitful, the young couple exchange rings and flowers to mark the first stage of a lifelong journey.

The bride's family then sends the Wazvan comprising of over 60 of the traditional mouthwatering Kashmiri delicacies to the groom's family to celebrate the engagement. This is followed by an official engagement ceremony where the parents of the to be wed couple decide upon the style of wedding, be it a Nikah or a Madhab. The festivities finally culminate in a grand marriage ceremony in the traditional Kashmiri style where nuptial wows are exchanged and the groom formally escorts his bride away.