Indian Traditions

I have been so blessed to get to know local families, and to be invited into their lives and celebrations. Last weekend Niraj and his beautiful wife, Guddy, came with their two children to my friend's Kris home for Sunday tea. Being the obnoxious picture taker that I am, I immediately began snapping shots. Guddy disappeared into the bathroom and soon appeared wearing her family jewels, that she had worn when she first met Niraj to consider their arranged marriage. She and Niraj predicted that I would be taking photos and wanted some portraits of her wearing the jewels. The only photo that she has of herself is one I took a few weeks ago.

 

 

Guddy wearing her family jewels

Gold jewelry is like a savings account in India. Gold and gems are highly regarded and are passed down from family to family, and kept in secure lock boxes in a variety of places. I recently discovered a heavy safe in my apartment tucked behind a set of drawers. No way to open it!

Sandita, two years old.

Enough with the photos say the kids!

The red powder (bindi) on Guddy's forehead is a sign that she is married.


Last night I was invited to the first birthday celebration of my assistant's son, Poorvash. I wasn't quite sure what to expect, but being India I knew it would be quite a party! To begin with, nothing much got started until 8:30 pm, followed by dancing, dinner and cake eating.

Poorvash in his sherwani suit

Poorvash with his mother, Aarti, and great-grandmother

Indian boys do not have their hair cut until two years old, at which time it is shaved off. Because their hair is so thick and long, it is often put up in pony tails. Young boys are often dressed like girls before the age of two as well.

More on arranged marriages soon! They are still the norm.