Asian weddings are characterized by an array of ceremonies, occasions and rituals. These marriages are a riot of colours and are fun filled occasions. The weddings are spread over almost a week and are extravagant events. The family members and friends of the bride and groom come together to celebrate this joyous occasion.

Almost all the Asian marriages have certain pre wedding rituals that need to be followed. Some of the most important ceremonies that are conducted before the marriage day are: engagement ceremony (sagaai), musical evening (sangeet) and henna party (mehendi). Everybody participates in these festivities and the occasion is celebrated amidst much fanfare.

While in the Christian weddings the congregation waits for the arrival of the bride, in the Asian weddings the groom's arrival is awaited at the house of the bride. After the welcoming of the groom there is an exchange of garlands (jaimala) between the groom and the bride. After this, among the Hindus the bride and the groom take seven rounds around the holy fire, the Sikhs take 4 rounds of the holy book and among the Muslims the marriage is solemnized by mutual consent. Among the post wedding rituals is the Vidaai wherein the bride takes leave of her parental home. This is followed by the welcoming of the bride into her new household amidst much joy and cheer.

In Asian weddings the bride and groom are elaborately dressed. Both of them wear the traditional attire complete with jewellery and accessories. The bride is decked in bright coloured sari or salwar kameez or lehenga choli. She also wears choora (Bangles), kalira (silver or gold ornament that is tied to the bangle), mangalsutra (a necklace made of gold that has black beads) and sindoor (vermilion mark applied by the groom on the forehead of the bride). The groom wears the traditional dhoti kurta or kurta pyjama. He also sports a turban with a veil which is called the sehra. It is made with fresh flowers or gold tassels.

A unique feature of an Asian marriage is the canopy (mandap) where the rituals are conducted. The place is elaborately decorated with draped fabric and flowers. The chanting of the wedding hymns and prayers are conducted under this canopy.

Asian marriages are also accompanies with much music. In most of the marriages the Shehnai (Trumpet) is played. Dhol (Drums) are also played by the women of the house at the time of pre wedding rituals. In the Asian marriages the groom generally arrives with a band announcing its arrival to the bride's family. The band plays lively tunes to get the guests dancing in celebration. Some forms of traditional Asian dances such as Dandia, Bhnagra, Mujra are also common features in Asian marriages. There are many families that also hire a professional DJ to play wedding sons at the time of the marriage.

An integral part of an Asian wedding is the food. A sumptuous meal is laid down for the family and friends of the bride and the groom. Each region of the continent has its own specialty. An elaborate feast is prepared for the guests on the wedding day.

Asian weddings reflect the diversity that characterises the region and are a testimony to the fun loving nature of the people of the region.