In Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, a groom was bound to a shopfront during wedding festivities and subjected to playful dousing with cola, flour, and eggs. Filmmakers stated this aligns with local customs, and the groom had previously participated in similar events.

Social Context

Mongol and Han wedding customs in Xinjiang often include lighthearted ‘groom-testing’ rituals symbolizing endurance and community bonding. However, since 2022, regional civil affairs bureaus have issued advisories urging moderation—citing the Civil Code’s Article 1010 prohibiting non-consensual physical contact—even in traditional contexts.

Safety Tip

Wedding planners should obtain written consent from participants for any physical ritual, ensure medical personnel are on standby for multi-hour binding, and avoid flammable or allergenic substances like flour near open flames or sensitive skin.