Hindu religion plays a major role in an indian wedding. Traditionally, this starts from the birth time astrological readings of the couple to determine compatibility. This custom has carried on from yesteryears which involved formal arranged marriages. Nonetheless, even in modern times, this custom is still followed. I did it for the curiousness and ‘check’ the customary steps.
The next most important steps is choosing an auspicious date and time for the wedding ceremony. The hindu priest is consulted for this task. In Australia, some hindu priests can also conduct the legal marriage, which is just as important. For a complete list of indian temples and priests in Australia, contact the Hindu Foundation of Australia and the Hindu Council of Australia.
In all the fun and festivities of organising your indian wedding, don’t forget to organise to be legally married in Australia. You must visit the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in your relevant state for the information. In Victoria, the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages provides guidelines and answers to most frequently asked questions.
Firstly, there is a bit of paperwork to fill out like a Notice of Intended Marriage among other things. In Victoria, you can be married by an authorised minister of religion or a civil marriage celebrant. The Hindu Council and Hindu Foundation can help you in this regard.
Please comment if you think, I may have missed something or need to explain further.
* Image by Flickr
