Sri Lankan wedding ceremony etiquette as tourist guest invited
Got invited via my guesthouse owner to attend her cousins traditional Sinhalese Buddhist wedding tomorrow in Kandy I am thrilled but completely unsure about etiquette appropriate gift colour dress code (white versus colours) when is the magul poruwa what are the moments where photography is rude versus expected and rough sense of monetary gift amount
4 Answers from travellers
Honored invitation Wedding etiquette as foreign guest at traditional Sinhalese Buddhist ceremony Dress code Avoid white (associated with funerals) and black Wear a saree if borrowed or a sari blouse and long skirt for women A long sleeved shirt and trousers for men Bright colours preferred reds golds peach pink turquoise Gift Monetary envelope is standard 5000 to 10000 LKR for guesthouse acquaintance is appropriate Use a new envelope write your name outside Sealed Some give a useful household item kettle bedspread tea set Magul Poruwa ceremony The decorated platform where the couple stands together happens once usually around 1100 to 1300 The most ceremonial moment betel leaves blessings rice grains thrown Photograph respectfully not blocking professional photographer Avoid stepping onto the poruwa platform that is sacred Lunch follows usually elaborate buffet eat with right hand if possible Stay 3 to 4 hours leave after lunch is gracious No need to attend full evening
Most Sri Lankan weddings have two ceremonies the traditional Poruwa in morning then a western style reception in evening You may be invited to one or both
Bring a small thank you gift for the host who invited you separately from wedding gift Hosts go to great trouble to include foreign guests
Traditional wedding includes Jayamangala Gatha chanting by young girls in white this is a beautiful blessing moment record audio if you can but no flash photography
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