Vancouver Documentary Wedding Photography | Celebrating Shashti Abda Poorthi

Vancouver Documentary Wedding Photography | Celebrating Shashti Abda Poorthi

When the world feels so uncertain at times, it is grounding to be in the midst of spirituality and love. This is the first time I have attended a Shashti Abda Poorthi, a ritual that celebrates completing 60 years of life and the renewal of wedding vows. This significant milestone is made even more meaningful because it is for Saras, my midwife, and her husband Jeff.

For those who have heard my birth story with Elliotte, you may remember that I called a little late and delivered her at home without Saras. She may not have been there to bring my baby earthside but she was integral in building my confidence as a new mother. To me, Saras is the embodiment of compassion, wisdom, and kindness.  I will always be in gratitude for her steady support and gentle heart those early days.

As I am witnessing the Puja rituals, I can feel the braiding of marriage, life, family, and love from everyone gathered. Saras and Jeff are surrounded by people that represent different stages of their lives. Their connection with these people has a depth and patina to it that a wedding has not yet earned. It has helped define the path travelled, but also continue to guide the journey ahead.

Thank you Saras and Jeff for asking me to document this celebration for you and your family. I feel truly blessed to be part of it all.

Felicia is a Vancouver Documentary Photographer who tells stories of everyday people and celebrates their mundane equally with their milestones. Contact her to document your family's edition of life story so that you can have it as a visual diary! To follow more of Felicia's work, connect over at @feliciachangphoto on Instagram.