Weddings

Nikoh-to’yi, a wedding, is one of the largest and richest Uzbek ceremonies. Traditionally, immediate and remote relatives, friends, co-workers, and neighbors are invited to this ceremony.

The wedding celebrations begin very early in the morning with the serving of the morning pilaf that is prepared in the houses of the groom and the bride. Nowadays, it has become more common to serve the morning pilafs in restaurants or choyhonas, tea-houses, as it is more convenient and comfortable for the hosts.

The ceremony continues with the groom going to the bride’s house with his close male friends, relatives and musicians. The purpose of the visit is to ask the bride for her marital consent then read the prayer to tie the knot. A mullah usually reads the prayer. For this part of the ceremony, the bride usually dresses in a white wedding dress and the groom wears a suit.

The next part of the ceremony is the bride’s farewell to her father and brothers. After saying goodbye to her father and brothers, the bride leaves her house accompanied by her mother, sisters, friends and relatives. The bride arrives at the wedding reception, and is welcomed by the groom and the guests. Once the bride and groom enter the reception location, all the festivities begin.

After the wedding reception the bride and groom go into their new room. The bride is met by a yanga, her relative or close friend who helps her change her clothes. After this the groom comes into the room but has to pay a little price for the bride to the yanga and then the newlyweds are left alone.

The next morning the wedding party and celebrations continue with the ceremony of Kelin salom, meeting the bride. The young wife should welcome every guest by bowing from the waist. The guests should give her gifts and greetings in return.

Language Points:

Langauge Practice:

Talk about the last wedding you have been to and compare the traditions with one in Uzbek culture.

References:

1. odam.uz
2. advantour.com
3. factsanddetails.com