Independent Lens Season 10 Episode 14
Independent Lens
Season 10

Ep 14. Arusi Persian Wedding

  • March 17, 2009

Documentary series Independent Lens presents a unique and intimate look at customs and traditions from around the world with its tenth season, and in its fourteenth episode explores the vibrant and elaborate Persian wedding that leaves nobody out. Arusi Persian Wedding is a one-of-a-kind celebration that brings together family, friends, and the larger community to honor and bless the couple's union while also showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Persians and their love for food, music, and dance.

The episode takes us on a journey deep into the heart of the Persian community in Los Angeles, California, where we witness the preparations and rituals leading up to the wedding day. We meet the bride and groom, who have been engaged for some time but are now ready to take the plunge and begin their new lives together. The groom, Ali, is a young man who was born and raised in the United States but has strong roots in Iran. The bride, Heather, is a blonde-haired, blue-eyed American who not only fell in love with Ali but also with his culture and traditions.

The couple's families also play a central role in the wedding preparations. We see Ali's mother, who is a talented cook and takes pride in preparing the food for the wedding feast. She spends days in the kitchen, making everything from scratch, including traditional Persian dishes such as polo (rice) and khoresh (stew), as well as sweets like sholeh zard (saffron pudding) and baklava. We also see Heather's mother, who is equally invested in the wedding and is excited to learn about and participate in the Persian customs.

The wedding itself is a magnificent spectacle. We are treated to the vibrant sights and sounds of the ceremony, which takes place in a spacious banquet hall decorated with colorful flowers and lights. The bride and groom, dressed in traditional outfits, exchange vows in a simple but moving ceremony conducted by an Iranian-American officiant. The families and guests shower the couple with blessings and wishes for a happy and prosperous life together.

But the real highlight of the wedding is the food, music, and dancing. We see the guests enjoying a sumptuous feast consisting of a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, traditional stews, savory rice dishes, and delectable sweets. We also hear the joyful strains of Persian music, played on traditional instruments such as the santoor (hammered dulcimer) and the daf (frame drum), and watch as everyone joins in the dancing, led by a professional Persian dance troupe.

Throughout the episode, we also learn about the history and symbolism behind various Persian customs associated with weddings. We discover the significance of the sofreh aghd, a ceremonial spread that includes items such as the mirror (symbolizing reflection and honesty), the bread (symbolizing prosperity and sustenance), and the candelabra (symbolizing light and hope). We also hear about the Iranian tradition of giving gold coins to the bride and groom as a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Overall, Arusi Persian Wedding is a delightful and heartwarming portrayal of a unique cultural tradition that celebrates love, family, and community. The episode captures the beauty and diversity of the Persian culture and shows how it has found a new home and taken root in the United States. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of immigrant communities, who bring with them their rich traditions and heritage and share them with others.

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Description
  • First Aired
    March 17, 2009
  • Language
    English