- Avarna Jain,
Chairperson RPSG Lifestyle Media
Why Do We Steal the Groom's Shoes Before the Wedding?
Stealing the groom’s shoes before the wedding rituals by the bridesmaids in exchange for desired ransom is an age-old practice, here’s all that we know about its roots in Indian culture
Image Credit: Pexels
Whether it is a multi-day big fat Indian wedding or a minimalistic low-key one, the shoe-stealing game or the 'Joota Chupai' has gained prominence over the years and emerged as a staple in Indian weddings.
The playful tussle between both sides of the family with the bridegroom’s shoes at the focal point is a delight to watch during wedding functions. Although the reason behind the ritual is unknown, there have been references to the ritual being prevalent during ancient times.
What is Joota Chupai?
Joota Chupai, orJoota Churai, is a fun-filled game where the bridesmaids and the bride’s sisters steal the groom’s shoes before the wedding rituals. The bridesmaids then negotiate with the groom to pay a small sum in return for the shoes.
Why do people hide the groom's shoes during the wedding?
Dr Pravin Mishra, professor of history and cultural studies at Guru Ghasidas Central University, Bilaspur, says, “Although there is no scientific, cultural or traditional evidence of this shoe-stealing ceremony, there are some references in various versions of epics suggesting that the practice prevailed during the ancient times. However, there is no archaeological or historic evidence to support the same. As people during the olden days majorly travelled via foot, there is some minor evidence in certain texts suggesting that in certain regions of northern India like Punjab, Lucknow etc. The bride's sisters used to hide the bride and the groom’s shoes to prevent the couple from leaving their home”.
Is this Ritual Prevalent in Other Cultures As Well?
There can be similarities drawn between the Indian ritual ofJoota Churai andthe Greek wedding ritual of walking in wealth. The groom-to-be buys shoes for his lady love and tucks money into the same. The money remains in the bride's shoes even while she wears the footwear.
According to Dr Mishra, the custom is prevalent in certain parts of Southeast Asia like Thailand, Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia where a major portion of the population is influenced by Indian culture. "The practice of extracting money, gifts or ransom in exchange for shoes is an influence of Indian Cinema on traditions."
Where we give you a fast-paced look into everything you should wish list when you start to think about marriage. What to buy and how to dress, along with modern mithai and the homegrown fragrance makers to bookmark. Make special note of the feature on alta.
It has everything you need to make your wedding special. From the big comeback of red and pink in bridal wear to how the cool kids are wearing corsets to the celebration, there is only one way to get ready for a wedding —with enjoyment.
This section is a building block, a step to a better life. A place where we have all the answers. Or at least the beginning of a great conversation.
This needs very little description. It has travel with a special focus on incredible India, and a collection of wedding albums, sourced randomly, but collected with abundance because happiness has no limits.
