Sneakers fit for an Indian wedding

In 2020 (yes that’s right), we all made our way to India for my sister-in-law’s wedding. What a fascinating, beautiful country, filled with fun traditions. Here are a few highlights of the customs we were lucky enough to experience:

a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
getting the more intricate henna underway with family and friends before the Sangeet begins
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
henna is believed to ward off evil and bring good energy
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
the Haldi ceremony when married women of the family put turmeric, water and oil on the couple
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
a family photo from the Sangeet
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
and dancing, so much dancing
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike

Color is important in India. Each has its own meaning–different than those we associate in the West. For example, a bride wears shades of red. Red is the color of the base chakra, which links us to Mother Earth.

In keeping with tradition, I incorporated as much color as I could into my wedding outfits. The Nikes I traveled halfway ’round the world with were bright purple.

Color is the soul of India, after all.

a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
the groom, riding his chariot during the Baraat
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
parading through the streets of Bhubaneswar during the Baraat
a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
the beautiful bride and groom after their ceremony under the Mandap

and bangles, lots of bangles

a wedding in Bhubaneswar / for the love of nike
and a more unusual American-style ceremony the bride and groom dreamed up

That’s all for now, but stay tuned.
You can make the journey around the Golden Triangle with me in the posts to follow.