The Big Picture: Wedding, Tajik-style Part III

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Witnessing the course of their children's marriage is a sacred duty for parents in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

And most Tajik couples here remain devoted to each other until the end of their lives.

Bride Zibaguli Dake wearing ornaments, groom Xiadibike Amirjiang shaving for the special day. /CGTN Photo

Since early morning, preparations for bride Zibaguli Dake and groom Xiadibike Amirjiang’s big day have been in full swing.

People are bustling around, decked out in traditional clothes in bright colors. White represents growing old together, while red symbolizes a happy life.

The bride wears a red-and-white handkerchief - which signifies happiness and good luck - around her wrist. The groom wears a hat decorated with cloth in the same colors.

Bride Zibaguli Dake and groom Xiadibike Amirjiang in full wedding dress. /CGTN Photo

“On wedding day, the groom is the ‘emperor’ and the bride is the ‘queen’. They have to dress glamorously. It’s special and unforgettable. I’m so happy!” said Zibaguli Dake, the bride.

“The wedding hat is the most important accessory. I will take good care of my wife. I’m looking forward to an even happier life in the future,“ said Xiadibike Amirjiang, the groom.

Flour is spread to express good wishes to the young couple. /CGTN Photo

Xiadibike Amirjiang rides a strong horse to the house of Zibaguili Dake’s parents, to pick up his bride.

The groom’s family then presents gifts to the bride’s family, before the Imam chants the scriptures.

The bride and groom drink water from the same cup. The groom kisses the hands of his parents-in-law, to express his respect for and gratitude to them.

The bride then kisses her parents goodbye, to express her gratitude for their loving care. Finally, the couple leaves the bride’s home.

Groom Xiadibike Amirjiang takes his bride Zibaguili Dake home, riding across Tashkurgan County on a horse. /CGTN Photo

Urbanization is fast spreading across Xinjiang, even to the remote villages in Tashkurgan and it has the potential to have a grave impact on people’s lifestyles here.

Young Tajiks today have a variety of choices for their wedding ceremonies. Though most still cherish the traditional customs, many are concerned that this very unique wedding culture of the Tajiks may gradually fade away.

Groom takes his bride home, while relatives and friends celebrate. /CGTN Photo

The couple reaches the groom's parents' house. A series of rituals are practiced. During the evening, the groom’s family holds a grand wedding feast for the relatives and friends who come to celebrate.

Wedding, Tajik-style. /Photos provided by bride Zibaguli Dake and groom Xiadibike Amirjiang

The festivities last three days, until the bride removes her veil. Relatives and friends will come to offer congratulations.

You can watch Part I and II of Wedding, Tajik-style here:

The Big Picture: Wedding, Tajik-style Part I

The Big Picture: Wedding, Tajik-style Part II

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