Language/Nepali-individual-language/Culture/Family-and-Marriage-in-Nepal
Introduction
Nepal boasts of a rich cultural heritage, and the family and marriage customs are a crucial part of it. In this lesson, we will explore the Nepali family structure, the societal norms surrounding marriage, and how these customs play a vital role in the Nepali way of life.
Nepali Family Structure
Family holds immense importance in Nepali culture. The Nepali family is traditionally patriarchal, where the father is considered the head of the family. The eldest son typically takes over the family business, and it is common for multiple generations to live together under one roof.
Family members tend to spend a lot of time with each other, and respect for elders is a crucial aspect of Nepali family life. Children are taught to respect their parents and elders from an early age. It is also common for children to take care of their aging parents in their later years.
Marriage Customs in Nepal
Marriage is a significant event in Nepali society, and it is typically considered a lifelong commitment. Nepali marriages are primarily arranged marriages, where the families of the bride and groom arrange the marriage.
The process usually begins with the families meeting and discussing the potential match. If both families agree, a formal engagement ceremony is held, followed by the wedding. Weddings in Nepal are grand affairs and can last for days, with various rituals and customs involved.
Various traditions are followed before, during, and after the wedding. Here are some of the significant customs:
Tilak Ceremony
The Tilak ceremony is performed to mark the formal engagement between the bride and groom. The groom's family visits the bride's family and presents gifts, including sweets, fruits, and clothing.
The ceremony involves the groom's father and eldest male member applying a paste made of vermillion, rice, and yogurt on the groom's forehead. The father of the bride does the same, and the groom is then presented with gifts.
Kanyadaan
The Kanyadaan ceremony is performed during the wedding, and it is one of the most emotional moments of the event. It is when the bride's father symbolically gives away his daughter to the groom.
Saat Phere
The Saat Phere ceremony is perhaps the most crucial part of the wedding. It is the seven rounds around a ceremonial fire that the bride and groom take, symbolizing their seven promises to each other.
After the seventh round, the couple is declared married, and the wedding rituals are concluded with the giving of gifts and a big feast.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nepali family structure and marriage customs are deeply ingrained into the country's cultural heritage. The family is considered the backbone of Nepali society, and it is reflected in the importance placed on familial bonds.
Marriage customs in Nepal are typically arranged marriages, where the families of the bride and groom play a key role in the process. Various rituals and customs are followed before, during, and after the wedding, making it a grand affair that serves as a celebration of love and commitment.
Learning about Nepali family and marriage customs not only provides insight into the country's culture but also helps foster better cultural understanding and respect. It is crucial to have knowledge of cultural norms to build strong relationships with people from different backgrounds.