No kissing the bride as Sri Lanka lifts weddings ban

The Government of Sri Lanka on Friday lifted a ban on wedding receptions as part of an easing of Coronavirus restrictions, with grooms not expected to kiss the bride at least in public.

The country is known for holding wedding celebrations with thousands of guests, and the festivities can last for days. But under the new guidelines only100 guests will be allowed at weddings and they must all stay a metre part and wear masks – including the couple.

“Guests should not be allowed to kiss, hug or shake hands,” said the latest health ministry rules seen by AFP. “Greeting each other should be done without any touching.”

Sri Lanka first imposed a nationwide curfew on March 20 that ruled out public gatherings, but the restrictions have reportedly been eased in several districts that are not considered high-risk.

Religious gatherings remain banned while only the bereaved family are allowed at funerals.

Offices have been allowed to open with reduced staff to carry out essential services, but the capital Colombo and the neighbouring district of Gampaha, where the main international airport is located, remain under a 24-hour curfew 

Sri Lanka has reported 1,055 virus infections with nine deaths since the first case was confirmed on January 27.