Title: Regarding Some Traditions in Weddings Question: Is ' Rukhsti ' and ' Mehndi ' [these are two of the many traditions/functions in a wedding ceremony in the sub-continent] an integral/obligatory part of a Muslim wedding or a tradition that has been brought in? Answer: There is only one ceremony that is an integral part of a Muslim wedding and that is Nikah . In fact as you must be knowing that without Nikah there can be no marriage at all. Rukhsati is not something which is an injunction of the Shari`ah but is actually a natural outcome of every marriage whether Muslim or Non Muslim, as, obviously, the bride has to go with the groom to start a new life. Whether the bride goes to her in-laws' house or the two shift to a new place of their own or the groom comes to live with the bride at her place, it would all depend on the culture in which the marriage has taken place. The Shari`ah does not interfere in it. All the other ceremonies or functions like Mehndi etc. are also actually related to a people's cultural tradition, and religion does not interfere in that. So there is no need to mix these cultural manifestations with religion and if somebody does it by force or tries to justify these ceremonies by religion or gives these ceremonies a religious reverence, then he is doing the wrong thing. This would then be an act of Bid`ah . I hope this explanation answers your question. You can always get back if you are still unclear. However, this is only my opinion in this regard and I admit any chance of mistake in forming this opinion. I would be open to other points of view if based on stronger reasons. May Allah guide us all towards the right path. Note : This response is written by Mr. Amar Ellahi Lone