Status of Walimah (Wedding Feast)

Q: There is a couple that are planning to make Nikah (get married) next month, but do not wish to have a Walimah as the boy has just converted to Islam and has no Muslim family to help with the Walimah. What advice could be given to the couple regarding the Walimah?

A: The Waleemah feast is Sunnah and not a compulsory act. If it is left out, no sin will be incurred. It is a misconception to think that a Waleemah has to be a lavish feast, with many people invited. The alternative is that two or three people are invited with the intention of Waleemah and something simple is served, e.g. a few glasses of milk, or tea and biscuits, etc. Issues such as venue, amount or types of food are immaterial. We advise the boy gives a simple Waleemah by inviting a few Muslim friends and a few members of the girls family. The latter may assist in preparations etc.

Prepared by: Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and approved by: Mufti Siraj Desai