WEEDDING TRADITIONS AND RITUALS

Abstract

In this article  Russian and Uzbek wedding traditions and rituals, as well as matchmaking in Russian and Uzbek families are covered. Wedding traditions in Uzbekistan are described, as they have developed over hundreds of years, and their rituals and ceremonies are considered one of the most ancient in the world. The article says that a wedding in Uzbekistan is not just a festive event, but a whole complex of traditional ceremonies that are held in a strictly defined order, that this process can last a month, and sometimes a year, since choosing a bride is a very responsible step for young Uzbeks. They carefully study their potential chosen one, her family and environment to make sure that she will become a worthy life partner. The first ceremony is the "Hatim", which is held at the bride's house. Close relatives and friends gather here to bless the future couple and exchange gifts. This is followed by a "Nikah", an official wedding, which is held in a mosque or at the groom's house. After the "Nikah", a magnificent feast is arranged, at which all the relatives and friends of the newlyweds are present. The day after the wedding, the Kelin Salom ceremony is held when the bride visits the groom's house for the first time.