Indian wedding #2

Over a week ago, my friend from work Nupura invited me to a wedding. She knew that I had been wanting to go to one and had mentioned it to her father and he suggested we go to his coworker's brother's son's one (yes a five degrees of separation invite). That day was also the first day of another intern's work at Sukrupa school so we both planned to go together. This was the most lavish and excessive wedding I have ever attended. There were over 4000 people there and there was enough food to feed a village. They had lentils appetizers, dessert BEFORE the meal, endless curries, paneer dishes, meats, dals, samosas, dosas, 6 types of rice, fruits and vegetables, chats, naans, rotis, chapattis, more desserts, cotton candy, popcorn, ice cream, snow cones, etcetera. It was slightly overwhelming. We went just for dinner though, as one does if he/she does not personally know the bride and groom. It was a funny experience as some things were "so India" (a phrase we use a lot these days). For example, while clearly it was a fancy wedding, guests still tossed paper plates on the ground. And there were no chairs or tables to sit and eat at so we had to stand and eat. One thing that was really odd was that there was a little person who was used almost as a circus attraction, whom everyone was encouraged to take photos with. Another circus attraction was myself, as I was the only Caucasian person there. I had several photo requests as well as had myself videotaped by the bridal videographer many times. Some photos from this night are below:

Jade, myself and Nupura at Nupura's house before hand:

Us and Nupura's mom. Her mother is so sweet. Although she doesn't speak English, she was indirectly asking us many questions and took it upon herself to ensure my sari was worn and secured properly. She makes her own sweet passion fruit wine and after we told her it was delicious, she insisted we each take a half litre home.

The scene at the outdoor portion of the wedding:

The bride and groom with their special guest:

The whole wedding party:

Before leaving, Nupura's dad insisted we take a picture with his car- note the various lit up Palm trees; literally everything outside was covered in colourful lights.