JOYS AND PLAYFULNESS AT WEDDINGS

Suggested by readers, this time, I explore numerous games or humorous bi-plays that are part of weddings and their customs.

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When I was recently reviewing my old research, I was fascinated by the variety of games and the humour they lent to what is often an emotional and stressful time. While weddings are, by and large, happy occasions celebrating the coming together of the young bride and groom, they also bring together two families with diverse thinking and customs.

The stress of completing the wedding ceremonies, the pressure of ensuring everything runs smooth, and tackling monetary challenges-all add up. Amidst all these, sometimes tempers run high and emotions bubble over. It was perhaps for this very purpose that Indian wedding ceremonies incorporate a variety of simple and often silly games that serve as relief and amusement. It also helped keep the bride and groom entertained during tedious ceremonies.