This first part is the religious ceremony with a celebrant. The woman remains in another room, usually with her married female relatives, while the celebrant gives a speech and prayers and the groom makes his vows and signs the contract in front of everyone else.

The celebrant then enters the other room for the woman to make her vows and sign the contract. Later she emerges to greet the guests.

This public ceremony in these photos includes a ceremonial seating in the "thrones" as "king and queen", and a formal meal with VIP guests. While on the "thrones" the couple receive the blessings of their close family, with ritual sprinkling of rice, scented water and herbs.