Marriage
Most people marry when they are around age 25 after dating for a period of roughly six months to two years. Traditionally, most marriages are arranged, but in urban areas ones marriage tends to be based more on romantic love between two individuals.
Normally, a young man who is interested in marrying a young woman will inform his parents of his intentions. If the couple has already been dating and the woman's family knows about the relationship, the process of formalizing the engagement tends to go smoothly. Once in a while, young couples will run off together and marry without their families' knowledge or approval.
Normally, a young man who is interested in marrying a young woman will inform his parents of his intentions. If the couple has already been dating and the woman's family knows about the relationship, the process of formalizing the engagement tends to go smoothly. Once in a while, young couples will run off together and marry without their families' knowledge or approval.
Wedding
This celebration is characterized by a one to two-week-long event, which extended family members travel from afar to attend. Traditional clothing and customary gifts add to the expenses involved. Before marrying, a couple must register the marriage civilly. Wedding ceremonies themselves may be performed by a civil, religious, or traditional authority. They are followed by a great feast and celebrations that include singing, dancing, and drinking.