I'm getting married to my Indian boyfriend. How is the Indian marriage?

Question

Hi,
I'm going to get married with my Indian boyfriend next year. What do you think what can I expect? we love each other very strong, we also both admit that there are cultural differences that will be quite tough to get through but we are also sure that God sent us to the Earth fo be happy with each other.
His parents are also happy for me, I talked to his sister on the phone, they are very nice.
His parents are pushing our marriage that I do not mind at all, since I also want it very strongly :-))))
My question is how should I imagine the Indian wedding? what are the expectations I need to meet? what are the traditions? do I need to bring any kind of presents? What is the role of the bride at a marriage?
I have seen the film 'Monsoon wedding' but I assume it is far from reality.
Please help me.
I really appreciate your comments!!!

he is from Gujarat, Ahmedabad, finished college, doing his MBA in UK now.

he is hindu, I'm christian - we agreed that I want to keep my religion as it is really important for me.
what are the criteria in India for a fioreigner to get married? birth certificate ? letter of being single? what else can pop up? thanks!

Answer 1

Wedding rituals differ in different regions and communities in India. There are so many differences that it will not be possible to give you a generalized idea, as it may be too far from reality. Please add some details about the community of your bf, region or state in India to which he belongs, educational background of his close relatives and then we will be able to give you a better idea about what to expect.

I think birth certificate should do but if you are opting for court marriage, they will tell you about all the documents you need. You are not asked for papers for Hindu religious weddings though. There are a few things you need to know about. Gujjus are mostly vegetarians and elderlies often look down upon alcoholic drinks, even beer. There can be few old ladies who won't even touch onion and garlic along with eggs. Smoking for ladies is strictly frowned upon. Gujjus in general are either too religious or they can be total non-worshippers. That depends on individual to individual. They are quite accomodating though and can be very warm, adjusting and friendly. You can win your MIL's and FIL's hearts, just by touching their feet and learn a few Hindi or Gujarati words. Few words will do. If you can learn a bit of Indian cooking and wear Indian dresses, all the family members will have eyes only for you. If you can't handle sarees, try Salvar suits without dupattas or drape dupattas like stole. Touch feet of anyone older than you, this is the most courteous way to greet someone in India. A bindi on your forehead can make the first impression strong. Simple gifts for everyone in the close family circle for the wedding will be very much appreciated. Either go for things that are not so easily available in India, ask your bf for the tips. Make a budget and then decide what to buy and what not tobuy. Jackets for all boys and men and even small boys, frocks for little girls and perhaps a cardigan for ladies should sit well. Indians especially appreciate 22K yellow gold. You may find it cheaper in India. Get the price quotes and if they fall in your budget, you may buy some gold jewelry pieces for you SIL or/and MIL in India itself. These are just ideas. You can by one thing for one person. If there is anything more you would like to know, send me a msg.

Answer 2

Congratulations, as u are going to marry with an Indian,They are most reliable hubbys on this earth. I think u don't have to worry about anything, as this is an arrenged marriage, the parents of the boy knows that u r from a diffrent culture and country, so they will help u in every meaning. Indians are usually helpful in nature and careful too. I think u just have to bring some gifts for family members, nothing else.

Answer 3

Arranged marriages have been an integral part of Indian society for centuries and even today it is quite normal for people to have their marriages planned by their parents and other respected family-members. Arranged matches were made after taking into account factors such as the compatibility of the couples' horoscopes, the backgrounds of their families (wealth, social standing) and perhaps most importantly, their castes. The institution of marriage in India is considered a very important one. Thus, parents felt that since they were older and wiser than their progeny, they would be able to find a suitable match for their children with more prudence than the latter. Although the institution of arranged marriage has been witnessing a downward trend in metropolitan India, it is still prevalent in rural areas.

Answer 4

Gujaratis are considered, comparitively a tolerant society and are open minded.
Indians basically like respect for elders. The peer group desires recognition and the juniors crave love. These three things can make you a good bride.
I certainly like your concern for the family and culture of your Indian fiancee.
In marriages you do not have to do anything but to follow the instructions of the priest (For that matter your friend might also be in the same boat).
As far as presents are concerned, these are always welcome in almost all the cultures. Usually in Indian marriages, gifts for the close relations are a must or you can say a ritual/custom. You can bring Sarees for the women, dress for the unmarried, etc. There is nothing in particular.

Above all, you should feel relaxed and should not worry for anything, the Indian family of your fiancee (Now yours) would be highly supportive and affectionate. Gujarati families are good.

Besides that Ahmedabad is a very beautiful and enjoyable place. I find one of the best places to live and prosper in India.

It is good for ladies not to smoke and drink. But if you do smoke and drink, you would certainly get a gestation period. And Indian families welcoming foreign brides are well prepared for such habbits, do not worry.

All the best. Welcome to India and Ahmedabad. (Ahmedabad)

Answer 5

First of all I congratulate you for marrying an Indian. I am 100 % sure you will be happy with your mate. You don't worry about the marriage ceremony. you have nothing to do, don't have to bring any presents even.

Answer 6

If his family is planning a grand wedding, then monsson wedding shouldnt be too far from reality! That is really how Indian weddings are! Just without so much "filmy" stuff!
Anyway, u dont need to bring any presents or anything.. the role of the bride is to smile and politely talk to everybody and to look good,be cheerful!
The traditions, well..there will be a long religious ceremony which u will just have to sit through and follow what the pandit or priest says!

Answer 7

No criteria as such. You are a foreigner and have to produce the citizenship document of your country if you want Indian citizenship through marriage.
There are a lot of rituals. But my mind says that your would be in laws, nice as they are, would make those very easy for you and you need not be tutored. Gifts are not necessary. But then show me one who doesn't like them. But touching their feet as a mark of respect at the time of introduction creates a big splash.

Answer 8

If he is Indian from India u need to learn what his religion is first and foremost. Hindu's, Muslim's and Budahist's each have their own seperate traditions and culture. I would ask him first and if still in doubt u need to talk to someone who is not conected to ur wedding party at all. Seek out an Indian community near ur home and go ask them . Ask his religious leader what would be expected from u that's where u start with his religious leader.

Answer 9

the role of a bride is to sit still and smile until the seven roundings. after that u can shed some tears or people will say u have no emotion. u cant kiss in public. the fun is for the relatives during the marriage, ur fun or suffering(from too much love) starts afterwards.

Answer 10

Indian boys are really obedient to thier wives