Real Weddings: A Dream-Come-True Meitei Nuptial
A typical Meitei wedding was the dream-come-true for Reena Ahanthem, senior fashion merchandiser and Rajesh Hidangmayum, a solutions consultant. Reena looks back at how things came to be.
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THE BRIDE
My potloi was by designer Oja Sarat, and I wore my mother's jewellery for the Luhongba. All my phaneks (sarong-like wrap) and inaphi (a scarf-like upper wear) were from Rani Handloom House, a store in Imphal that's famous for its weaves.
THE GROOM
Rajesh’s kurta was from Popular Tailor in Paona Bazar, Imphal.
THE WEDDING PLANNER
Manipuri Weddings.
THE PHOTOGRAPHS
Adusyanti Chatterjee - Wowdings
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Our Advice
Take step-by-step decisions so that you are not overwhelmed. Include your family in deciding the details, because their help can be invaluable.
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Pretty Little Things
We went for an elegant tone with the décor, with lots of white drapes, fairy lights, flowers, and pastel tones. But we didn’t use any fresh flowers as it breaks my heart to throw them away later.
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Honouring Customs
I always wanted a traditional Meitei wedding and it was exactly as I had imagined. The festivities began with the Waroipot (engagement), followed by the Heijingpot (bridal shower), and then the Luhongba, or the wedding day. As per convention, all the rituals were held at my home in Imphal.
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As Simple As That
A couple of years ago, during a holiday in Pondicherry, we began chatting about our hopes and dreams. It suddenly struck us that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives together. There was no proposal. We just made that decision together.
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Meant To Be
We were introduced by friends in Delhi in 2017 and hit it off from the start. I was leading an extremely busy life and he brought in a refreshing sense of calm. Imagining a future with him came so effortlessly.