With an estimated 900 million followers worldwide practicing a vast array of rituals and ascribing to widely divergent beliefs, Hinduism is a complex culture that is immersed in strict obligations. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the numerous wedding festivities and ceremonies that take place over several days in a Hindu family.
Hindus consider an arranged wedding as the purest form of marriage, although an increasing number are choosing love marriages.
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One of the most misunderstood aspects of Hindu culture is the centuries-old practice of arranged marriages. According to the Hindu Rite of Brahmana, the only way a person can fulfill their destiny is to marry their soulmate. When a girl reaches marriageable age, a sophisticated network of matchmakers, astrologers and community members band together to find the bride-to-be a compatible match.
Increased exposure to outside beliefs, and a growing need to declare their independence, is forcing many members of the younger generation to Choose Between Duty and Love. Picking passion over compatibility is not only shunned by the majority of society, but a gandharva vivaah (love marriage) is also condemned by the ancient Vedic texts. Despite intense disapproval, young professionals in urban areas are increasingly searching beyond the confines of their castes to find their perfect match.
If you are planning to attend a Hindu or Buddhist wedding, then you will want to explore these enchanting Marriage Gifts for Buddhist and Hindu Couples. Newlyweds in both cultures are typically given money, but it must be presented in an auspicious amount. For a more personalized gift, bronze statues of deities are a popular and appreciated way to honor the heritage of both faiths. Any gift that helps a Buddhist couple attain wisdom and happiness, and that assists a Hindu couple in pursuing dharma (duty), acquiring artha (possessions), achieving kama (physical desires) or attaining moksa (spiritual release), ensures the newlyweds will fulfill their marital obligations.
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- Marriage Gifts for Jewish, Christian and Muslim Couples on WeddingTraditions.about.com
- Cultural Wedding Gift Traditions on WeddingTraditions.about.com
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