Dispatches From The Field

29 September, 2003 -- Shaun Dunn

My First Malagasy Wedding

This past weekend I was invited to my first Malagasy wedding that took place in Sandrandahy, a small town about 6 hours South of Tana (the capital). My invitation came from Pierrot (one of our Malagasy students who recently completed his Masters degree!) as it was his cousin that was getting married.

The wedding shared many of the same rituals and customs that one might see in an American wedding, involving many family and community members and accompanied by a religious service. The first part of the ceremony lasted about 20 minutes and began with a gathering in the local town hall for the bride and groom to sign the official legal documents in the presence of their family, the Mayor of the town, and all invited guests.

The assembly then moved to the local church for a short mass and then what Americans might consider a typical religious wedding ceremony. There was an exchange of vows, rings, and even the lighting of a candle by the newly wed couple. Then at last came the well-known and long-established tradition of the first kiss of the newly wedded couple.

After the couple was officially married by both the local government and church the whole affair was wrapped up with a great feast and speeches galore from relatives and close friends. The food was traditional Malagasy fare of rice accompanied by salad, pork, and lots of drinks!

Despite being the only ‘foreigner’ present I was welcomed in all aspects of the wedding and was urged by all to participate in the local customs. As always while visiting this country I was accepted and felt comfortable no matter where I was or whom I was with. It was one of the best times I have ever had in Madagascar.