One event which seldom happens in German society and the same event which happens quite often in Indian society. By now it must be quite obvious what I am referring to. “Germans getting married”. The society is so open and relaxed that teenager can even live with their partners separately away from parents with out getting married. Let’s argue the pros and cons later but now let’s get back to my experience of attending first German marriage.Having lived here for five years, it was always my dream to attend one German marriage. Thanks to Kai and Isabel who gave a lovely opportunity to witness one of the cultural fest which I could experience in this part of the world. Kai and Isabel know each other and were in a relationship for almost eight years and then they came to a conclusion they were made for each other.:) The most important event in German marriage is “Polterabend” where all the family members, friends come for the function. They bring old Porcelain plates and cups and break them. The bride and the bridegroom clean up the place which will bring lot of luck for both of them. Nearly 100 people came for this function in the evening. Next day, bride, bridegroom, all the family members met in the Standesamt where the marriage was officially registered. The phrase “Letzte chance zum Rückzug” – Last chance to go back was painted in the Standesamt. Certainly a phrase which every partners would cherish before signing the official document of marriage in Germany. :D
After the Standesamt function, we all met in Kai’s house for a breakfast with lovely gifts and wishes being exchanged. Then we went for a religious Catholic wedding in the church. I really liked the ambience in the Church and of course the dress code of the guests. Then came the big party where only around 25 people attended the dinner. We are so privileged that Kai and Isabel invited us for the dinner where only family members were present. It was so perfectly organized in such a way that the seating arrangements were made well in advance and name plates were displayed for each of the guests where to sit down. This is something I could never even imagine in an Indian set up.The function went on very smooth and soft where there is no chance of Chaos and mishap. I even realize why not Indian marriages have very little numbers and not very luxurious. The money being spent for one or two days can be used for the betterment of good life. Of course it doesn’t make sense to shake hands and give an artificial smile to the person in the marriage function whom I have never seen before. Having tasted both the cultures to the core, I can say it’s all the priority which people set to themselves. Driving a BMW or Mercedes can give pride to a German whereas inviting 1000s of people to a marriage function can give pride to an Indian.
All in all, it was a day to remember for me in Germany. It would have been an insatiate dream for me in Germany had I not attended Kai’s wedding. Best wishes to Kai and Isabel for a wonderful life together.
Thanks,
Sathish & Anita.
