AN INDIAN WEDDING

Taranaki Daily News, 1 December 1932, Page 14

AN INDIAN WEDDING

INTEREST IN TE AROHA. \

RITES OF SIKH RELIGION.

Te Aropa, Nov. 24.

Intense public interest was aroused in Te Aroha on Saturday by an Indian wedding, which was carried out in true Eastern fashion. The bride was Miss Kartari Singh, the eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Phuman Singh, residents of'Chudleigh, near Waihou. The pridegroom was Mr. Surain Singh, Manawaru. The bride is 18 years of age. The parties are Sikhs from the Punjab, and the bride’s father was determined to follow the customary marriage rites of his religion. The marriage had been entirely arranged by the parents of both the bride, and groom some years ago. The ceremonies commenced at Chudleigh at 1.30 on Saturday morning, and were completed before the dawn of the new day. The service was surprisingly simple, and not far removed from the Christian ritual. Several Europeans who were privileged to be present were greatly impressed with the service. In the afternoon, a motor-car containing the bridal couple headed a procession of about 20 cars. On, arrival at Te Aroha the procession was played through the town by the Te Aroha Municipal Band. Large crowds lined the streets, and the bridal party was given a most enthusiastic welcome. The party then returned to Chudleigh. In the evening, there was a social gathering at the home of the bride’s parents. Mr. T. Hickey, on behalf of the settlers in the vicinity, presented the bride and bridegroom with a large clock and wished them every happiness. The bride visited her husband’s home for only a brief time yesterday. She returned in the afternoon, and will remain with her parents for a period of from two to three years before she actually goes to live with her husband. This is strictly in accordance with the Sikh belief, and during that .time she must always’be veiled if her husband is present.