Kathmandu, Feb. 18 -- Deepika's engagement ceremony was everything she had ever wished for. A designer outfit, professional makeup, a palace-like venue, her family having a ball and top photographers documenting the special day. Deepika, 26, who wants to be known by her first name only, was the first one in her family to have such an extravagant engagement ceremony, and the first to add the ritual of an exchange of rings.

"Traditionally in our Newa culture, we have the kochi, the first ceremony of the wedding in which the groom's presence is not necessary. In this ceremony, the groom's family visits the bride and performs pujas, as to confirm the wedding," says Deepika. She opted for a ring exchanging ceremony instead, replicating an Ind...