What These Men Did To Leave A Bride In Tears Is Strangely Beautiful

Even in a world full of endless “surprise wedding dance” videos, it is still possible to have one that is meaningful — not just to the wedding party, but to anyone who celebrates love.

In the following video, men and women of Maori heritage (the indigenous people of New Zealand) break out in a haka dance, which is a strange but beautiful rhythmic ritual that involves shouting and stomping. It is used in their culture to celebrate special occasions, and judging from the bride’s reaction, this one was very special indeed.

Awesome HAKA at a wedding reception. #ProudPolynesiansClick on link for a better understaniding of the New Zealand Maori Haka: http://www.folksong.org.nz/tika_tonu/

Posted by I’m Proud to be Tongan on Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Originally, the dance was the war cry of the Maori people. True to tradition, New Zealand’s most popular rugby team, the All Blacks, begins every match by performing a particularly intimidating version of Haka at their foes. Fortunately for humanity, contemporary people of Maori descent are transitioning the tradition into more loving scenarios.