So here it is, the longer version of this Persian wedding custom. The video isn’t perfect, I took it with my digital camera and the room was dimly lit. I also stopped to take photos in between, so I included those snapshots.
Here’s an explanation of the custom from the Persian Mirror:
The purpose of the Persian Knife dance (Raghseh Chagoo) is for the couple to retrieve a knife from the dancers so they can cut the wedding cake. The dance starts with one person dancing a typical Persian dance, with the knife and basically asking the couple for money. Once the dancer gets the money, the knife is passed on to the next dancer. The bride and groom continue to offer money to try and get the cake knife. A little back and forth, and a few dance moves later, the couple finally are given the knife and are able to cut the cake.
One final point, it’s from Brother #2′s wedding. Enjoy!
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
That was great! I’m so impressed with the video you got as it looks like the light wasn’t the best!
That cake was beautiful!
@maribeth: Thanks! I did adjust the brightness, hue and contrast a little to make it easier to see what was going on. Their whole wedding was awesome, btw.
What a cool tradition. I had not heard of it before!
@diane mandy: I hadn’t either. The whole Persian wedding thing was new to me. I really enjoyed it though!