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What was a typical Sri Lankan wedding like in 1965, especially for my maternal grandparents?
In 1965 Sri Lanka, many weddings followed a traditional Sinhalese or Tamil format, emphasizing cultural rituals like the "Poruwa" ceremony, which symbolizes the couple's first steps together as husband and wife.
The average age of marriage in 1965 for Sri Lankans was around 24 for men and 22 for women, often influenced by family decisions and societal pressure.
Most weddings involved the use of intricate decorations and sometimes elaborate costumes, reflecting the rich heritage of both Sinhala and Tamil traditions, with brides often wearing sarees made of silk.
The importance of astrology played a significant role in marriage arrangements; horoscopes were consulted to check compatibility between the bride and groom.
The wedding would generally feature a large gathering, with families inviting extended relatives and community members, sometimes exceeding 300 guests.
A unique aspect of Sri Lankan weddings is the "Kanda Nadagam," a form of folk theatre that employs traditional storytelling, often performed during the festivities.
Traditional music and dances, such as folk drumming and the "Kandyan" dance, were integral parts of the celebration, serving both as entertainment and cultural expression.
The concept of dowry was prevalent, with family gifts ranging from cash to household items being exchanged to ensure the bride’s well-being.
Couples often enjoyed a formal photographs session which was a new trend in 1965, showcasing families, the bridal attire, and ceremonial activities historically.
Wedding gifts were typically practical items, reflecting the agrarian lifestyle of the time, such as kitchenware and agricultural tools, rather than luxury items.
The wedding attire often adhered to traditional color schemes, with brides wearing red and gold, as these colors symbolize prosperity and happiness in Sri Lankan culture.
The practice of the groom riding to the wedding venue on horseback was common in many regions and was seen as a symbol of nobility and strength.
Food was a hallmark of any wedding celebration, often featuring a buffet of traditional dishes like "kiribath" (milk rice) and "sambol," as meals were a way to showcase family heritage and hospitality.
Following the wedding, a ceremonial "meal offering" to deities was conducted, seeking blessings for the couple's future together.
Most weddings began at sunrise or sunset, reflecting beliefs about auspicious timings as guided by astrological readings.
In 1965, it was common for couples to live with either set of parents for some time after marriage, reflective of the collectivist culture prevalent in Sri Lanka.
The emphasis on white doves or other symbols of peace and prosperity in decorations was a nod to the desire for a peaceful and harmonious life together.
Photographic techniques in 1965 had limitations, which means that family photos would often include several poses due to the use of film cameras and developing processes.
The evolution of marriage customs and practices can show how Sri Lankan society has been gradually influenced by globalization, especially after many families migrated to countries like the US in the 1970s.
The cultural nuances in Sri Lankan weddings mean that they have transformed over decades, with modern trends integrating new styles while maintaining core traditional values.
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