Wedding Customs & Events

What is the difference between nikah, rukhsati and walima?

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Nikah is the marriage contract. Rukhsati usually refers to the bride’s formal departure to start married life with the groom. Walima is the post-nikah reception hosted by the groom’s side in many Pakistani Muslim families.

Families may combine these events or hold them on different days depending on budget, custom, city and family preference.

Because customs vary, both families should clarify what each event means for them before dates and expenses are fixed.

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