Weddings are always a moment of special celebration across different countries and cultures of the world. There is always something unique you will come across in these different wedding ceremonies.
If you refer to weddings in Chinese traditions or in other countries of Southeast Asia there is something common in all of them. This is the popular use of wedding lanterns.
It is a paper lantern, handmade in exceptionally opulent designs. It starts to float when you light the lantern. Besides its unique characteristics, this is also a very celebrated and traditional part of weddings and other social occasions of china as well as other countries of the far eastern countries.
Sky Lanterns
The name is given because of the fact that these lanterns float in the sky to higher altitudes. Basically the sky lantern is made from special handmade papers. These papers are made from several natural products like rice. There is a common use of oiled rice paper for these lanterns.
A structure for the shape and appropriate size of the lantern is created with the help of bamboo sticks. This is then covered or wrapped with the paper that is made especially for the lantern.
There is even a use of artistic paintings and drawings on the paper of the lantern. In the center of this lantern there is an inflammable substance placed. This could be a small oil lamp or even a candle.
When the candle or the lamp is lighted there is heat formation within the lantern that makes the air spread and thus becoming lighter. As the air within starts to move higher in its level the lamp is carried off at the same time as well.
These were a popular part of traditional events and occasions when the night sky would be dotted with illuminated and fancy lanterns. It is a sight of rare beauty and scientific thought.
When we mention special occasion it counts wedding celebrations as one of the chief occasions. In addition, this special celebration is always marked with the use of sky lanterns or wedding lanterns in Southeast Asian countries like China, Thailand and Korea among several others.
It is believed that the floating of wedding lanterns is auspicious for a newlywed couple. It is said to usher in blessings for them and bring in good luck as well. The elegance and opulence of these lanterns have also made them popular among couples of other countries as well.
