Fifty couples got married in a combined ceremony in Kabul to try and counteract the skyrocketing costs of typical weddings there. Despite the austerity imposed by prevailing cultural norms, the occasion provided a means for couples to commemorate their union without the weight of extravagant expenses.
Shifting Customs Around Weddings in Kabul
There have been major changes to wedding ceremonies since the Taliban took back power in August 2021. The extravagant parties with dancing and singing of the past have given way to more somber gatherings that comply with the current cultural standards that declare these celebrations to be non-Islamic.
An Event of Charity
The Selab Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping couples get off to a strong start in marriage, was behind the recent mass wedding. $1,600 in large donations was given to each couple, which is a significant amount in one of the world’s poorest countries. Couples also received needed home furnishings including rugs, blankets, and basic appliances as part of their wedding package.
Glimpse Inside the Ceremony
The ceremony was held in the well-known glamour of Kabul’s wedding halls, but, as is customary in the area, the brides were kept hidden until after lunch. The hundreds of men in attendance were dressed in traditional patu shawls, which embodied a fusion of traditional Afghan culture and modern wedding customs.
The occasion highlights how Afghan communities are able to adjust and persevere in the face of cultural changes without sacrificing the value and happiness of marriage.
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