What to wear to a South Indian wedding (and not embarrass the family)

A South Indian wedding has a sequence of events, and each has a colour discipline. White and near-white are reserved for the bride. Black is acceptable in the city, less so in the village. The family will not stop you, but they will notice.

For a temple ceremony, wear a Kanchipuram with a generous pallu, draped over the left shoulder. For a reception, a Banarasi or a Mysore silk will do. For a sangeet, a cotton-silk in a bright colour is the safest, most comfortable pick.

If you are a male guest, a simple kurta in cream or ivory is the right answer. A Nehru jacket is optional, and only in winter. Avoid black suits unless explicitly told.