My Big Fat Greek Wedding Could Have Been an Indian Wedding
by How similar the two cultures and family structures are.
Image via Wikipedia
The movie was so much fun to watch. I must say that a lot of it was very similar to what happens in a large Indian Family as well. You will find the same close bonding, and keeping in touch. The same unwanted advice pouring in from all quarters. The same set ways of life that are acceptable to the full family.
Yet beyond all that there is the fantastic support system that such large families provide. I agree that the Indian Joint Family is a dying breed now, with most people having to shift to metros or abroad for work. There is still the big family base in the “village” to be visited at regular intervals.
Think about it, don’t you like having people who care about what you are doing with your life? You do! If at times it does get over the top and some what intrusive, you can always take that step backwards and regain control. Or do something that the family does not approve of! Now that’s a sure fire way of ensuring that no one will bother you for a while.
Image via Wikipedia
Then again as times goes by and they accept what you have done, you will be welcomed back into the folds of the family with open arms. Cultural implications of mixed marriages used to be very stark even a decade ago, but now people and their families are far more understanding.
Image via Wikipedia
Yet when I saw that movie, it just struck me as having an Indian heart. After all the Greeks are just like the Indians when it comes to family matters.
Liked it
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Post Commentchris73
On May 18, 2009 at 3:05 pm
Things magnified in that movie and reality is not exactly like that. There are some base points about family but not in the way you watch in the movie. At least yes, no matter how old and what you did all the previous years you are welcomed as a little child. As conclusion don’t take that movie too seriously, it is just a comedy
ken bultman
On May 18, 2009 at 4:07 pm
Didn’t see the movie but am intrigued by customs of other cultures. Didn’t I just read about a mass wedding in India recentl?. What was that all about?
Ruby Hawk
On May 18, 2009 at 7:14 pm
I haven’t seen the movie but from what I understand the families are much like our own used to be but now it has all changed with people moving out of the community and going their separate ways. It’s a pity.
Daisy Peasblossom
On May 18, 2009 at 7:52 pm
Families vary. I was happy to leave most of my extended family behind. On the other hand, I keep close contact with my children and with friends who have become like family. I’ve not seen the movie; but it seems to me that you are talking about the importance of a reliable, interactive support group.
Uma Shankari
On May 18, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Chris73, all movies are fantasies; they magnify certain aspects of life. Ken, mass weddings are conducted in a community to cut costs because wedding costs are prohibitive. Big families can be a problem because the old voices can pull down young spirits, but in times of emergencies/old age they can be a blessing. But behind every blessing, there is an unacknowledged sacrifice, so it can be troublesome for the sacrificial goat!!
Ask Cash
On May 18, 2009 at 10:27 pm
Beautifully put Uma. Thanks everyone for stopping by.
Joe Dorish
On May 19, 2009 at 9:08 am
Have seen Monsoon Wedding but have yet to see My Big Fat Greek Wedding.
skylite
On May 19, 2009 at 1:12 pm
I have not seen the movie yet, thanks for sharing
Ask Cash
On May 20, 2009 at 4:39 am
Joe, when you have seen them both you’ll understand that the families are so similar, despite the cultural differences.
Will Dee
On May 20, 2009 at 8:03 am
Wonderful comparison between the two cultures.