Discuss the questions in groups

1. Which do you think is the most interesting wedding ritual from the passage? Why?

The most interesting wedding ritual from the passage may vary depending on the person's interests and cultural background. Some people may find the Southeast Asian practice of using henna to bring good luck to the couple fascinating, while others may be intrigued by the Thai tradition of pouring blessed water over the bride and groom's hands. The Vietnamese bridal shower, where the bride receives advice and gifts from her family and friends, might also be considered an interesting ritual to some. Overall, each wedding ritual has its unique significance and history, and what makes them fascinating is their ability to reflect and celebrate the cultural values and beliefs of a community.

2. What wedding rituals do you know about from other cultures?

• Indian weddings: Indian weddings are famous for their vibrant colors, music, and dance. Some of the common rituals include the Mehndi ceremony (applying henna on the bride's hands and feet), Sangeet (a pre-wedding celebration with music and dance), and the Baraat (the groom's arrival on a decorated horse).
• Chinese weddings: Chinese weddings often include a tea ceremony where the bride and groom serve tea to their parents and receive blessings in return. The bride usually wears a red dress symbolizing good fortune, and the couple may also exchange rings during the ceremony.
• Scottish weddings: In Scottish weddings, the bride may wear a tartan sash or shawl, and the groom may wear a kilt. The couple may also participate in a traditional handfasting ceremony where their hands are bound together with a ribbon or cord.
• Nigerian weddings: Nigerian weddings may include a traditional Igbo ceremony where the groom and his family formally ask the bride's family for permission to marry her. The wedding may also feature a colorful display of fabrics, jewelry, and dancing.
• Jewish weddings: Jewish weddings often include the signing of a Ketubah, a marriage contract that outlines the couple's obligations to each other. The ceremony may also include the breaking of a glass by the groom to symbolize the fragility of life and the commitment to staying together through hard times.

3. Are there any special rituals for weddings in your province?

In Hanoi, weddings are typically celebrated in the bride's family home or a rented venue, and they involve a series of customs and rituals. Some of these include:

• The engagement ceremony: This is the formal announcement of the engagement and is often held several months before the wedding. The groom and his family visit the bride's family to present gifts and ask for her hand in marriage.
• The betrothal ceremony: This is held a few weeks before the wedding and involves the exchange of gifts between the two families. The bride's family will often present gifts such as jewelry and clothing, while the groom's family will offer items such as tea, wine, and fruits.
• The wedding ceremony: This is the main event and can last several hours. The ceremony involves the exchange of vows, prayers, and offerings to ancestors. The bride and groom also exchange wedding rings and perform a traditional tea ceremony to show respect to their parents.
• The wedding reception: This is a celebratory event where guests enjoy a meal, music, and dancing. The bride and groom will often change into several outfits throughout the reception, including a traditional ao dai and a Western-style wedding dress.