Virpal & Gagan - Punjabi Pre-Wedding Rituals in California, USA
It took no less than 100 Indian weddings to finally make it to California, to photograph my first Punjabi celebration on the west coast of the USA. It begins in a familiar way, with the maiya ceremony at the future groom's place, in Fremont: Much like the rangoli, Gagan seems ready to get the show on the road: Gaana is a red thread tied to his right wrist. It's supposed to be auspicious, that's all I know for now: Soon, the groom to be is covered in yellow turmeric dough: While peacefully carrying out their duty, his cousins are ambushed and smeared with vatna, as well: The 'mom-tries-to-feed-the-groom-sweet-rice-and-is-stopped-by-her-sisters-in-law' ritual is always fun, but, to this day, I still don't know the meaning of it. Also, I believe it must have a shorter name: Money is a popular gift given away every day of the wedding week. I guess it brings ... fortune? Gagan goes to shower, taking back his dupatta: Next day, the Chandni...