Weddings in India are grand. It can last for more than three days. Culturally, it is very different from most other countries. Therefore, if you are a foreigner looking forward to holding your wedding ceremony in India, the whole celebration may seem like a “cultural shock” to you.
Thus, it is better to consider the legal requirements and cultural differences. This article is here to tell you about some crucial things you must know before you marry your Indian would-be partner:
Legal Considerations
First, let’s discuss the legal part of the wedding! A wedding between a foreign national and an Indian citizen generally comes under the Special Marriage Act of 1954—applicable when two individuals get married through a civil ceremony, regardless of their nationality and caste.
However, when an Indian citizen residing abroad marries a foreign national under Indian law, The Foreign Marriage Act 1969 is applicable.
- Residency requirements: Before marrying, check if you or your partner fulfill the residency requirements. At least one of the two individuals must live in India for at least 30 days before you can apply for marriage. You must also produce proof of residency.
- Age requirements: The legal age for marriage in India is 21 for males and 18 for females. This age criterion applies to foreign nationals marrying an Indian.
- Required documents: You will need a valid passport, birth certificate, visa, no impediment or single status, and No Objection Certificate from your country’s embassy. If you were ever married, you must produce your spouse’s divorce papers or death certificate.
- Legal recognition of foreign marriages: As India recognizes foreign marriage certificates, you don’t need to register your marriage in India if your legal marriage occurred abroad.
Cultural Differences
Now that you are done with the legalities, let’s get into the fun part. If you are having an Indian wedding, be ready to wear gorgeous Indian traditional outfits, and the food will be mouth-watering.
Here is some pep talk on the cultural part so that no Indian aunties or uncles look with squinted eyes at your mistakes:
- Diverse Traditions: Indian weddings generally go on for more than three days with numerous rituals to perform. Moreover, since India is equivalent to diversity, the traditions vary depending on region and religion. A Punjabi wedding will look very different from a Tamil one. You can discuss it with your partner to know their traditions because they often carry deep emotional and spiritual significance.
- Familial bonding: It is often said that when you say “I do” to your Indian partner, you say that to all their family members. In Indian culture, family plays a crucial part. They’re close-knit and massive. So, don’t forget to show respect to the elders who will be coming to bless you and your partner.
- Food and hospitality: Food and hospitality are a big deal in Indian culture. So, you can expect a variety of delicious dishes on the wedding menu. The flavor-loaded dishes will be the talk of the town among your friends and family members, who will fall in love with the taste of authentic Indian food.
- Respect their culture: Even if some customs may feel unfamiliar, respecting them is a great way to show acceptance. Whether touching elders’ feet as a sign of respect or participating in prayers, these small gestures show your willingness to embrace their culture.
Conclusion
India is about rich traditions, diverse customs, and deep-rooted family values. Therefore, when you are marrying an Indian, it will open a door to an incredible experience.
Weddings are not only a journey of love but also about honoring each other’s backgrounds. So, if some customs might feel new, don’t feel hesitant. After all, your willingness to learn and participate will earn the appreciation of your in-laws.
