The Buddhist Wedding

Our traditional attire plays an important role in the wedding.  The groom presents the bride with a bakkhu, a full-length brocade sarong like dress with a sleeved blouse and se ghow that is jewellery made of gold and precious stones.

But the sign of a married woman is the pangden.  It’s an apron-like cloth, tied around the waist of a married woman.

In this fast-moving city life it’s difficult to follow customs accurately.  Back home everything is done with authenticity but traditions water down when you move out.

Just like Hindus exchange garlands, Buddhists offer the Khada.  It was originally a white silk scarf but these days it’s made in different colours with fancy prints and embroidery.

At the wedding you put it around the neck of the bride to present her with good luck.  It is the most respected aspect in Buddhists rituals.