The groom's family hosts a feast to celebrate the marriage
The groom's family hosts and invites their guests. The bride's family attends as honoured guests. This is the groom's family's celebration.
The Valima is an Islamic tradition - a feast hosted by the groom's family the day after the Nikah to celebrate the marriage and introduce the new bride to the groom's community. It is considered Sunnah (a practice of the Prophet Muhammad ï·º) and highly recommended in Islamic tradition.
The Valima is the groom's family's event - they invite their own guests, colleagues, and community members who may not have attended the Baraat (Nikah day). The bride appears in a different, typically lighter outfit than her Baraat look.
Accepting a Valima invitation is also considered Sunnah - it is seen as disrespectful to decline without valid reason. The event centres on food, prayer, and celebration.
Bride
Lighter and more relaxed than the Baraat - pastels, green, gold, or ivory. Still formal.
Guests
Formal South Asian or Western formal wear. Women in shalwar kameez, saree, or formal dress. Men in shalwar kameez or suit.
The Valima dress code is slightly more relaxed than the Baraat.
Pakistani
In Pakistani culture, the Valima is a major event - sometimes as large as the Baraat. The bride wears a lighter colour (often pastels, green, or gold) compared to her red Baraat outfit. The groom's mother takes centre stage as host. Some families combine the Valima with a Nikkah ceremony for guests who could not attend the main Baraat.
Gift expected at this event
If you did not give at the Baraat, bring your gift/eidi to the Valima.
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