Question
Is there anything wrong with having an invitation from the girl’s side at the time of her marriage, which is in addition to Walima (on the assumption that at such a function there is a guarantee that there will not be intermingling, wastage, music, extravagance etc)?
Answer
After Nikaah, the invitation from the bride’s side in the manner that is commonly in vogue nowadays in the name of a “wedding reception” is not proven and substantiated in the light of Sharee’ah and must therefore be left out totally.
However, if people left their town and travelled to participate in the Nikaah ceremony, and it is meal time when they arrive, then on the basis of Ikraam-e-Dhooyoof (honouring one’s guests) there would be scope in hosting them at ones’ home (not at a hall, etc), as this is not a wedding reception or feast from the bride’s side, but rather expected and deserved hospitality. It is obvious that when guests arrive at one’s door from out of town, one does not expect them to eat at a take-away or restaurant as this would be unethical.
If one can plan the Nikaah ceremony at such a place or time, so that it does not coincide with any meal time (lunch or supper), then this is advisable so that even this situation may be avoided.
Checked and Approved By:
Mufti Muhammed Saeed Motara Saheb D.B.
References
Fataawa Haqqaaniyya Vol 4 Pg 430
Hindiyyah Vol 5 Pg 343
Mahmoodiyah Vol 12 Pg 142
Kifaayatul-Mufti, Vol. 5 Pg 156