10 Wedding Traditions Around The World

Zee Media Bureau
Dec 04, 2023

India

In Hindu weddings, the Mehendi ceremony involves applying henna on the bride's hands and feet for good luck. The Saptapadi, or seven steps, is a crucial ritual symbolizing marital vows.

China

The tea ceremony is an essential part of Chinese weddings, where the couple serves tea to their parents as a sign of respect and gratitude.

Japan

In Shinto weddings, the couple may participate in a ritual called san-san-kudo, where they take three sips each from three cups of sake, symbolizing the union of two families.

Mexico

A traditional Mexican wedding includes the "lazo" or wedding lasso—a large loop of rosary beads or flowers that is placed around the couple's shoulders to symbolize their unity.

Russia

In a traditional Russian wedding, the couple is greeted with bread and salt at the entrance of the reception. The bread symbolizes prosperity, and the salt represents the difficulties the couple may face.

Jewish Traditions

The breaking of the glass in a Jewish wedding symbolizes the fragility of relationships, and the couple shouts "Mazel Tov!" (good luck) after the breaking.

Greece

In a traditional Greek wedding, the bride may carry a sugar cube in her glove to symbolize a sweet marriage. After the ceremony, guests are given sugared almonds for good luck.

Scotland

Another Scottish tradition is the "First Footing," where the bride is the first to enter her new home and is expected to bring symbolic gifts like coins, bread, salt, and whisky.

Italy

In Italian weddings, the couple may break a glass or vase during the ceremony. The number of shards represents the number of happy years the couple will spend together.

Indonesia

In Javanese weddings, a ritual called "Siraman" involves the couple being bathed in turmeric water by their parents, symbolizing purification and blessings for the marriage.

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