Photo: Reuters
MULTAN: Normally an extravagant affair, weddings in Pakistan traditionally entail five events; a mayun, mehndi, nikkah, rukhsati (wedding) and a valima.
Only two of the traditional five events, the nikkah and valima, are prescribed by Islamic teachings. In many cases, especially in the more affluent classes of society, the festivities start a month in advance with dholkis every night to celebrate the couple coming together. The cost of each event leaves the hosting families digging into emergency savings, an act that could otherwise be avoided.
It took a measly amount of 1200 rupees for a couple to tie the knot in Multan on Monday, setting an example for all and sundry to follow.
Ramzan, the groom, led his 60-strong wedding crew from Manzoorabad to Shah Rukn-e-Alam via the Metro Bus in the evening and were able to reach their destination within 10 minutes. The travel cost of 1200 rupees was borne by the groom's uncle Abdul Qadeer who had come to attend the wedding ceremony from Karachi.
The price of a metro bus ticket was a measly 20 rupees. Upon arrival at Shah Rukn-e-Alam colony, the 'nikkah' ceremony took place in a nearby mosque.
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As a token of gratitude, drinking water and traditional sweets were distributed among the guests. Consequently, one of the most simple and frugal weddings came to an end.
Ramzan wore a simple white shalwar kameez with a black waistcoat. ''I wanted to set an example for the parents who cannot afford the steep costs involved in marriage nowadays,'' Ramzan explained.
''We should take the example of Prophet Muhammad who told us that the best marriage is a simple one,'' he added.''50 per cent of the Pakistani population cannot afford to bear the costs associated with a marriage ceremony,'' the groom said.
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