The most anticipated and most celebrated event in the country. Indian weddings liven up the streets, cheer up families and represent an occasion for friends and acquaintances to meet and celebrate.
The best way to get to know the Indian culture is to attend and take part in at least one wedding , better if more than one and of people of different religions. In India everything is in function of this solemn event and has such an importance that it is an integral part of the local tradition.
If you are lucky, as happened to me, there are street celebrations with parades, dances, musicians, floats or even horses. In this case you get close, take some pictures but nothing more.
If, on the other hand, a friend or someone you have recently met has an imminent marriage, perhaps of a family member, and asks you to join, it's not a joke! Accept, cancel other less important and not strictly necessary commitments, go out and go buy one traditional Indian dress: a kurta or sari (if you are women) cheap and go, you won't regret it.
It depends on the type of wedding but you can be invited to those of Hindu, Sikh or Christian religion, All three are equally colored, they last until late and even for several days and include dances at will. They foresee a solemn celebration, full of rituals that emphasize the union of two people and the partnership between two different families. Usually the hands and feet of the bride and the guests come the day before painted with henna as professionals in the sector and singing, playing and dancing with a group of friends under a gazebo created ad hoc for the situation.
The thing a Westerner likes a lot is that here everyone is dancing, regardless of age. Indians are very open, welcoming and love to have guests, especially at their wedding. I have attended many weddings and never felt like a stranger, always like at home, pampered and welcomed with smiles. It is customary to bring a gift or money, I didn't know how to behave the first time and so I bought a silver frame, well excessive! Just a little thought or do not worry about taking anything if the invitation is at the last and do not be upset if they do not unwrap the gift in front of you, they will open it later.
Some advice: avoid dressing western, it depends on the season but black is better to wear in the evening and, if too hot, I recommend light colors. There is the possibility of dancing late then comfortable shoes. They always prepare a buffet for lunch or dinner so don't worry: you won't go hungry! It depends on the degree of acquaintance you have with the spouses or family, but, if the party is out of town and lasts several days, there is the possibility of be invited for the duration of the celebration, therefore also to spend a few nights in a hotel booked by them. Don't ask how much it costs, it can be offensive.
The huge difference with our wedding dinners is that sits for a short time, in order to leave room for others, it is usually a buffet and is not served, but it also depends here from wedding to wedding. It is truly an incredible experience, which you will always carry with you as the best memory of this incredible country, I assure you.
