Bollywood Weddings examines how second-generation Indian-American Hindus of the middle and upper classes negotiate courtship and wedding rituals. Kavita Ramdya integrates the stories of twenty couples, showing the ways and means by which a subcommunity falls in love and expresses their identity. She provides readers with a window into these Indian-American couples who are navigating identities through a major rite of passage in their lives-marriage. She affirms that this community flaunts all things Indian as a way to assert their American identity. Many of these couples are occasional Hindus, displaying their Hindu religious background only on important occasions. Instead of choosing either India or America, or arriving at a compromise between the two, this community embraces both cultures simultaneously.

Bollywood Weddings examines how middle to upper class second-generation Indian-American Hindus negotiate wedding rituals, including the dating and engagement processes. Many of these couples are (in Ramdya's neologism) 'occasional Hindus' who display their Hindu religious background only on important occasions such as the rite of passage that is marriage. These couples (and their extended families) negotiate two vastly different cultures and sets of values inside a community that has itself largely pre-determined how to mix American and Indian/Hindu elements into this ritual. As a rule, the first generation organizes the wedding, which is largely Hindu, and their children coordinate the American-style reception. Instead of choosing either India or America, or arriving at a compromise in between the two, this community takes a 'both/and' approach, embracing both cultures simultaneously. Ramdya's ethnographic fieldwork includes in-depth interviews of engaged couples, observation at their wedding ceremonies, wedding videography and photography, and material culture such as the clothing her participants wore on their wedding day. She explores pre-wedding day topics such as America's Indian-Hindu marriage market and bridal industry, then goes on to describe pre-wedding and wedding-day customs including the engagement party, kanyadan, and baraat. Bollywood, whose Indian origins grants it authenticity from the Hindu perspective and whose emphasis on romance accommodates American values, emerges as the key mediating third culture around which the community applies the both/and model to wedding rituals. The both/and model uncovered here reinforces the community's identity as ethnic and American even as it confirms that success in America need not be bought at the expense of one's religious background and cultural heritage.

Are you ready and excited to start designing your wedding? Keep this in mind: the most important thing is to enjoy this wonderful process. This is an exciting beginning of a wonderful life. Your wedding week is a celebration, so let's make planning it a celebration as well by incorporating the things you cherish the most. Let's make your big day uniquely yours so it leaves behind cherished memories. As you begin planning, take it easy and go chapter by chapter. Start formulating your own ideas of what your wedding will be. The key is never to become overwhelmed. We love the idea of having an inspiration board to keep track of your wedding ideas so you can share them with your decorator, florist, or planner. Most importantly, give yourself some time off occasionally from planning. That will help you be relaxed and refreshed and see things with a clearer view. Trust your vendors to handle the details. You'll be married and riding into the sunset before you know it. In the meantime, you have some planning to do. Cheers!

Embark on a captivating journey through the kaleidoscope of Indian wedding traditions with "From Haldi to Honeymoon." This comprehensive guide offers an immersive exploration of the rich tapestry that weaves together the diverse rituals and customs embedded in the fabric of Indian matrimonial celebrations. Delve into the heart of cultural significance as you unravel the pages, beginning with the pre-wedding rituals like the vibrant Haldi ceremony and moving through the sacred vows of the wedding ceremony steeped in Vedic traditions. Traverse the labyrinth of post-wedding customs, savor the opulence of attire and jewelry, and get lost in the enchanting cadence of music, dance, and decor that characterize Indian nuptials. Discover the symphony of flavors in the extensive chapter dedicated to the culinary delights of Indian weddings, from traditional feasts to modern culinary innovations. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of wedding invitations and stationery, and gain valuable insights into managing finances and budgeting for the grand celebration. As the narrative unfolds, witness the evolution of Indian weddings through Chapter 10, exploring modern trends and innovations that are reshaping the landscape of the wedding industry. Navigate the delicate nuances of cultural sensitivities and overcome challenges with grace in Chapter 11. "From Haldi to Honeymoon" is not just a book; it's an odyssey, a visual and intellectual feast that captures the essence of Indian weddings in all their splendor. Whether you're a bride-to-be, a cultural enthusiast, or simply a lover of vibrant traditions, this book promises to be your ultimate guide, offering a panoramic view of the sacred and celebratory moments that define the journey from Haldi to Honeymoon.

This is the first book to tackle the diverse styles and multiple histories of popular musics in India. It brings together fourteen of the world's leading scholars on Indian popular music to contribute chapters on a range of topics from the classic songs of Bollywood to contemporary remixes, summarized by a reflective afterword by popular music scholar Timothy Taylor. The chapters in this volume address the impact of media and technology on contemporary music, the variety of industrial developments and contexts for Indian popular music, and historical trends in popular music development both before and after the Indian Independence in 1947. The book identifies new ways of engaging popular music in India beyond the Bollywood musical canon, and offers several case studies of local and regional styles of music. The contributors address the subcontinent's historical relationships with colonialism, the transnational market economies, local governmental factors, international conventions, and a host of other circumstances to shed light on the development of popular music throughout India. To illustrate each chapter author's points, and to make available music not easily accessible in North America, the book features an Oxford web music companion website of audio and video tracks.

Hey Bollywood buffs, ever wondered what makes Bollywood tick? This second edition of "Bollywood" is your all-access pass to the glitz, glamour, and grit of India's iconic film industry. We'll kick things off by diving into how Bollywood dreams are taking over the world. From packed theaters in Mumbai to sold-out shows in New York, Bollywood's magic knows no bounds. We'll even explore how Bollywood's charm isn't just about entertainment; it's a form of soft power diplomacy that shapes how the world sees India. But it's not all song and dance. This book delves into the new wave of filmmakers who are shaking up Bollywood's classic formula. Get ready for stories that challenge stereotypes, spark conversations, and push the boundaries of what Bollywood can be. We'll also tackle the big issues, like how Bollywood is using its platform to make powerful social commentary and fight for a more inclusive and representative industry. Ever been swept away by the passion of Bollywood's fan culture? We'll take you behind the scenes of the digital age fandom, where social media, fan clubs, and online communities are transforming how audiences connect with their favorite stars and films. And let's not forget the business side of things. Bollywood isn't just about art; it's an economic powerhouse. We'll uncover the secrets of Bollywood's financial success, from box office blockbusters to merchandising empires. But what happens when Bollywood clashes with Hollywood? We'll compare and contrast these two cinematic giants, exploring their unique styles, values, and global impact. So, if you're ready to uncover the magic, meaning, and the sheer masala of Bollywood, this book is your ticket. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, this second edition is packed with fresh insights, untold stories, and a whole lot of Bollywood love. Get ready to be entertained, enlightened, and maybe even inspired to break into a dance!

Bollywood’s New Woman examines Bollywood’s construction and presentation of the Indian Woman since the 1990s. The groundbreaking collection illuminates the contexts and contours of this contemporary figure that has been identified in sociological and historical discourses as the “New Woman.” On the one hand, this figure is a variant of the fin de siècle phenomenon of the “New Woman” in the United Kingdom and the United States. In the Indian context, the New Woman is a distinct articulation resulting from the nation’s tryst with neoliberal reform, consolidation of the middle class, and the ascendency of aggressive Hindu Right politics.