Last week Maggie and I had the privilege of photographing Lisa and Anil's Hindu wedding in Columbia, MO. It was my first experience photographing such an occasion and one that left me exhilarated and intrigued! There are so many details, traditions, and rituals that make up the Hindu wedding. I felt like I was witnessing something very sacred and very special. So many precious moments to capture. Their colorful clothes and personalities, their joy, their laughter, their love for Lisa and Anil - all combined to make one very happy celebration.
The pre-wedding rituals began the night before with the Mehndi Ceremony (also know as Henna). Everyone gathered at Anil's parents home for an evening full of common Hindu customs and simply enjoying eachother's company.
Like all Hindu brides, Lisa has her Mehndi applied to her hands and feet.The women all gather around to talk, sing, dance, and entertain Lisa during the Mehndi Ceremony.Lisa's parents and sister watch in admiration.Her artist was very talented to say the least.Lisa wears the traditional red sari wedding gown and is adorned in jewels from head to toe. How exciting for a bride!!!Lisa's wears a red bindi on her forehead which represents marriage, and also marks and protects the location of the third eye - the eye of inner vision and spiritual wisdom.Anil and Lisa see eachother in their ceremonial dress for the first time.Lisa and Anil have been together for 7 years already. And it shows. :)The Hindu Priest does the entire ceremony in Sanskrit, pausing at times to translate.Lisa is brought to the ceremony by her Grandmother.Anil and Lisa exchange malas, the garlands around their neck.They symbolize the unification of their hearts and the promise of bringing sweet fragrance into eachother's lives.
Offerings are made to the sacred fire.Anil and Lisa stand on a stone to symbolize stability in their marraige and strength to overcome all distracting infulences.
The rock they stand on.Blessing the bride and groom as they circle the holy fire.The Hindu ceremony eternally unites the bride and groom AND their familes.Everyone changes clothes following the ceremony. More beautiful things to wear!I had a feeling this was going to happen. :)Dancing for the bride and groom.The evening ended as it began. Full of vibrance, laughter, and dancing!
1 comment:
Very beautiful pictures. Lisa looks equally beautiful in Indian dresses! Anil most handsome as ever. Great to see that everyone is enjoying the Indian wedding.
Puru
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