Ins and Outs of A Pakistani Wedding
Question
What is a Mangni
Answer
[Mung-ga-knee] A Mangni is sort of like an engagement party, but here the future bride and groom exchange rings with each other and family and friends bless the new couple and future union. There is sharing of sweet treats and of course food! Waleed and Liana had their Mangni on January 28th with a small group of family and friends. They wish more of you could have been there to celebrate but that is what the future events are for!
Question
What is a Mehndi
Answer
[Men-dee] A Mehndi is analogous to a rehearsal dinner but there is also dancing! It is traditionally a smaller event. You are expected to wear bright, fun colors because this is a party! This is very similar to the Mangni in that people will come up to the couple as they sit on a stage and give them a sweet treat, or money, and bless their wedding that is happening the next day. You will also see a leaf that people will apply some henna (or mehndi as it's also called) to. Traditionally, people would put oil in the hair of the couple or turmeric on the skin, but we aren't wanting to have a big mess so the henna and the leaf is enough! This is meant to be a party! So there will be dancing, fun, and of course food! If you would like to dress in more traditional wear, you can wear a Shalwar Kemeez, or really any bright colored formal wear is great!
Question
What is a Shadi
Answer
[Shaw-dee] This is the wedding day! It can take many different forms and can have many aspects to it as well. A shadi can vary from couple to couple and what meets their needs. Our shadi will have the Nikkah and the Barhat as well as food (of course!) This is a formal event!
Question
And a Nikkah?
Answer
[Nick-ah] This is the signing of documents affirming our relationship to each other and in the eyes of Allah with the Imam, or Muslim priest. This typically happens after the Barhat and before the meal.
Question
What is a Barhat?
Answer
[Buh-rot] A Barhat is the precession of each couple and their family. At the venue their will be a stage for the couple to sit at (and for people to come and take photos with them later). Waleed and his family will walk together first and then Liana and her family will enter. This is sort of like walking down the aisle!