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Here's what is actually happening in a violent-looking wedding video that's gone viral
Here's what is actually happening in a violent-looking wedding video that's gone viral
Melia RobinsonJan 23, 2016, 22:48 IST
A New Zealand couple's wedding video is making rounds across the internet this weekend, showing that love and respect know no cultural bounds.
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First, watch the emotional video here. We dare you not to tear up.
It's been watched over 33 million times and racked up 43,000 comments on Facebook, as of Saturday morning.After tying the knot in Auckland last weekend, Aaliyah and Benjamin Armstrong were treated to a surprise performance by the groomsmen and guests. The men performed the haka, a traditional Maori war dance in which participants stamp their feet, stick out their tongues, slap their chests, and shout in unison.Check out these guys in action.Facebook/I'm Proud to be TonganFacebook/I'm Proud to be TonganWhile it might seem like the groomsmen are trying to intimidate Benjamin, as some internet commenters have wondered, the haka is in fact a sign of respect. While the war dance was used on the battlefield in ancient times, it also serves as a "fierce display of a tribe's pride, strength, and unity," according to NewZealand.com. It may be used during Maori ceremonies and celebrations to revere guests or mark a milestone.In the clip, Benjamin and Aaliyah watch on with reverence.Facebook/I'm Proud to be TonganEventually, the 21-year-old bride comes to tears. She told BBC she was "blown away."Facebook/I'm Proud to be Tongan
"They are quite strong, the men in their family," Aaliyah told BBC.
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Here, we see 23-year-old Benjamin jump in.Facebook/I'm Proud to be TonganTradition goes that women watch the haka from the sidelines as their men prepare for battle, though Aaliyah says exceptions are made at weddings."I wasn't planning on jumping in until one bridesmaid did," she told BBC. "I felt the need to show love and respect back."Facebook/I'm Proud to be TonganThe woman brings it.Facebook/I'm Proud to be TonganThe scene was captured by the bride's cousin's production company, Westone Productions Limited. It posted a link to Facebook on Thursday explaining that meaning of the chant."Son, although it may be difficult for you," the English translation reads, "and son, although it seems to be unyielding / no matter how long you reflect on it / the answer to the problem / is here inside you."Sage advice to the newlyweds. We wish them the best.
