Mauritanian weddings are grandiose and colorful events that capture the attention of the entire capital. These traditional celebrations, which often take place over several days, are an opportunity for Mauritanian families to come together and perpetuate the ancestral customs of their culture.
As soon as the marriage is officially celebrated at the mosque, the women gather at the bride’s home to begin the festivities. The drums resonate and the songs of the grillos warm up the atmosphere. It is a moment of sharing and joy where women provide support to the bride and strengthen family ties. The dowry is also brought on these occasions, thus testifying to the generosity and solidarity between families.
Meanwhile, the groom and his friends join in the celebration at the “Toga” ceremony, where the ring is given to the bride. It is then that the bride appears, still hidden under a white veil. This veil symbolizes modesty and respect towards the elders of the family. It is also a moment of suspense and play for the guests, who try to guess what the bride looks like hidden under her veil.
The last evening is devoted to the “Marwah” ceremony, where the husband comes to pick up his wife to go on their honeymoon. This time the bride is hidden under a black veil and the bride’s friends will try to prevent her from leaving, according to tradition. This hide-and-seek game adds a fun touch to the celebration and arouses the amusement of the guests.
Mauritanian weddings are memorable events which bring together nearly 400 guests and which allow the cultural traditions of Mauritania to be preserved and transmitted. These festivities, beyond the union of the bride and groom, strengthen family ties and create an atmosphere of joy and conviviality.