A nomad wedding is different it is a simple and private celebration. These
people live a happy life. Their world is not cluttered with comforts from a
modern life. They live in a modest home in a small remote village in Kashmir.
Soon it will be filled with family and friends who have traveled for days to join
the celebrations. It is unusual for a photographer to be present. A special
invitation has been extended to me to attend and tell the story of a young
nomad woman who will soon make the transition from being a daughter to
becoming a wife.
1. Home
Nomad families have one permanent home that they return to after travelling
from place to place. They move around to graze their stock and try to earn
what money they can to support their families. Turbans are hung at the door
and used on the women’s heads to support vessels carrying water. These
vessels are carried from lakes that are far away. This tradition has been
carried down from generations.
2. Wedding preparations
Women arrive carrying large pots filled with water for the bridal feast. Cooking
begins on the fireplaces outside the house as it takes time to prepare enough
food for all the guests.
3. Bride to be
It is an emotional time for the bride. She has thoughts and memories of her
childhood growing up and carefree in this small family home. Tears trickle
down her cheek as she realises that this is the last time she will spend with
her family as a single woman.
4. Three wise women
The matriarchs of the family gather to oversee the preparations and make
sure everything is as it should be. They are proud women ready to give advice
even if it is not needed!
5. The cooks
As pots bubble and boil on the open fires everyone helps to prepare. The
cooks are frantic now as the time for the wedding feast is fast approaching.
6. Women gather
Women talk and share some laughter as they prepare for the celebrations.
Intricate designs are applied with henna to decorate their hands and feet.
7. Men gather
Men assemble and use the rooftop of the family home to offer prayers for the
family and the couple soon to be married. Women and children are not
included and wait in the house below. The time is drawing near for the official
ceremony.
8. Men of wisdom
Piercing eyes and traditional clothing make these elders stand out against the
other guests. They look almost regal in their formal headdress.
9. The groom
Money is given as wedding gifts. The groom displays his collection proudly.
10. The bride
Beauty and innocence are reflected in her eyes. Her life will soon be changed
forever and with that thought comes a moment of quiet contemplation.
11. Wedding chariot
A hand crafted wedding chariot awaits the newly married couple. Excitement
builds among the guests as the newly weds will soon sit proudly and parade
through the village.
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