On the way home from the beach today we were stopped in the middle of the road by a mob of people parading through the streets. They were carrying money to a family near by. The money that you can see joined by the 2 large poles is to buy a wife. I was shocked to hear that this actually happens. It's called a pay meri.
The friends and family of the groom to be, parade around the streets shouting, singing and squirting baby powder at each other (hence the white faces). When they get to the bride's house they will present the money along with a pig or two to her father. The reason for this is because the girl is a valuable asset to her father, she works long hours in his garden and if she gets married the father will need some money for his loss. The husband pays him compensation. I think a lot of dads would like this to catch on back home.
There's a video on my facebook page if you fancy a better look.
Love Emma x
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