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- The engagement ceremony, known locally as "Shukaansi", this is where the groom gives the bride a special type of shawl locally known as "Goore". This signifies an engagement and is marked with celebrations.
- The wedding ceremony ("Nikah"):
1. Pre-wedding events: Before the main wedding ceremony, there are often several pre-wedding events that take place. These may include:
* Henna night (Gooba-henna): On the night before the wedding, the bride and her female friends and relatives gather for a henna night. Henna is applied to the bride's hands and feet in intricate designs.
* Wedding procession (Soo-dhaqaad): On the day of the wedding, the groom and his groomsmen process to the bride's house, often accompanied by music and dancing.
* Exchange of vows (Nikah): The main wedding ceremony is the exchange of vows, which is conducted by a religious leader (Sheikh). During the ceremony, the bride and groom consent to the marriage, and the dowry is paid.
2. Wedding attire: Somalis have specific styles of clothing for weddings:
* Traditional: The bride typically wears a long, flowing dress called a "dirac" made of expensive fabric often with gold embroidery work and a matching headscarf. The groom wears a traditional Somali suit, which may include:
- Khamiis: A long shirt-like garment
- Suud: A jacket
- Macawis: Wrap-around pants
* Modern: Some couples opt for more modern attire, such as a Western-style wedding dress for the bride and a tuxedo or suit for the groom.
3. Wedding reception: After the wedding ceremony, there is a reception where guests celebrate with food, music, and dancing.
Traditional Somali dishes, such as rice with meat, are often served.
In addition to these general norms, there are many other aspects of Somali weddings that can vary depending on the region and the families involved.