Indian Wedding Invitation: Wording, Etiquette & Beautiful Templates for the US
Planning an Indian wedding in the United States? Your invitation sets the tone for one of life's most significant celebrations. Learn how to craft the perfect invitation that honors your traditions while resonating with your multicultural guest list.
Introduction
An Indian wedding invitation is far more than a simple request for someone's presence—it's a cultural declaration, a design statement, and often the first glimpse your guests get of your celebration. In the United States, where Indian weddings increasingly blend heritage with contemporary style, creating the right invitation requires understanding both traditional customs and modern expectations.
For more inspiration, explore What Should Be Included In A Wedding Invitation.
Whether you're planning a Hindu ceremony, a Sikh Anand Karaj, a Muslim Nikah, a South Indian Hindu wedding, or a Gujarati celebration, this guide provides you with wording samples, etiquette tips, stationery options, and design inspiration to create an invitation that beautifully represents your family and traditions.
For more inspiration, explore this guide to catholic wedding invitation.
Understanding Indian Wedding Invitation Traditions in the US
Hindu Wedding Invitations
Hindu wedding invitations traditionally incorporate several key elements that reflect spiritual significance and family prominence. The invitation often opens with traditional blessings and auspicious symbols that set a reverent tone. In the US context, many families retain these elements while adding modern design touches.
For more inspiration, explore Cool Wedding Invitation Wording.
Key features of Hindu invitations include:
- Opening with blessings and auspicious symbols
- Family names prominently displayed
- Multiple function dates (Mehendi, Sangeet, Ceremony, Reception)
- Mention of sacred rituals and their meanings
- Color choices like red, gold, pink, and cream
Sikh Wedding Invitations
Sikh wedding invitations celebrate the Anand Karaj ceremony with elegance and spiritual resonance. These invitations typically honor the Sikh faith while maintaining inclusive, welcoming language for diverse guest lists.
Distinctive elements include:
- References to family blessings and spiritual traditions
- Emphasis on unity and joy in the community
- Often bilingual (English and Punjabi)
- Warm, familial tone
- Colors like saffron, white, and navy
Muslim Wedding Invitations
Muslim wedding invitations reflect Islamic traditions while embracing modern aesthetics. The invitation sets a warm, welcoming tone while honoring the significance of the Nikah and Walima ceremonies.
Key characteristics:
- Opening with traditional Islamic phrases adapted for English-speaking audiences
- Clear ceremony explanations for non-Muslim guests
- Elegance and formality in design
- Often incorporate geometric patterns or calligraphy-inspired design
- Sophisticated color palettes
South Indian Wedding Invitations
South Indian wedding invitations showcase the region's distinctive customs, from the significance of specific ceremonies to color symbolism. These invitations often reflect the classical traditions of Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam cultures.
Elements to consider:
- Reference to regional traditions and customs
- Multiple ceremony dates specific to South Indian celebrations
- Traditional motifs and design patterns
- Bilingual invitations (English and regional languages)
- Warm, hospitable language reflecting South Indian culture
Gujarati Wedding Invitations
Gujarati invitations celebrate the vibrant traditions of Gujarat, from Mehendi nights to the main ceremony. These invitations often feature bold colors, ornate designs, and a celebratory tone.
Signature elements:
- Multiple celebration events spanning several days
- Festive, joyful language
- Bold color choices (red, gold, fuchsia)
- Traditional motifs and contemporary design blends
- Family-centric, warm messaging
Essential Elements of an Indian Wedding Invitation
1. Opening Blessing or Welcome
Every Indian wedding invitation benefits from a warm, spiritual opening that sets the celebratory tone. Rather than jumping directly to logistics, begin with language that reflects your tradition:
- "With immense joy and family blessings, we invite you to celebrate the union of..."
- "In celebration of love and tradition, we warmly invite you to witness..."
- "With grateful hearts and joyful spirits, we invite you to join us as we celebrate..."
2. Names and Family Presentation
Indian invitations traditionally present the names of the couple's parents or elder family members, reflecting the communal and family-centered nature of the celebration:
- Present both sets of parents
- Include traditional respectful titles if appropriate
- Consider bilingual presentation of names
- Make clear who is inviting (parents, couple, family)
3. The Couple's Information
Modern invitations balance tradition by including the couple's names prominently alongside family:
- Display couple's names clearly
- Use transliteration if names include non-English scripts
- Consider including a personal note or quote that represents the couple
4. Multiple Function Details
Indian weddings typically span multiple events. Organize these clearly:
- Mehendi (henna application ceremony)
- Sangeet (musical celebration)
- Ceremony (the main wedding ritual)
- Reception (formal dinner and celebration)
- Additional events (welcome dinner, farewell brunch, etc.)
For each event, include:
- Date and time
- Location (venue name and address)
- Dress code specific to that event
- Any special notes or traditions to explain
5. Dress Code Guidance
Indian wedding invitations should provide clear dress code guidance for a multicultural guest list:
- For Mehendi/Sangeet: "Indian attire encouraged—sarees, sherwanis, lehengas, etc. Western formal wear also welcomed"
- For Ceremony: "Traditional Indian formal wear requested" or "Formal Indian attire"
- For Reception: "Formal wear / Indian formal wear"
- For Casual Functions: "Cocktail attire / Indian festive wear"
6. RSVP and Guest Information
Provide multiple ways for guests to respond and necessary logistical information:
- Response deadline (typically 2-3 weeks before wedding)
- Contact names and phone numbers
- Email address
- Online RSVP link or platform
- Dietary restrictions inquiry
- Plus-one policy clarity
7. Cultural Context and Ceremony Explanation
For guests unfamiliar with Indian wedding traditions, brief explanations enhance understanding and comfort:
- Explain the significance of each ceremony
- Describe guest participation opportunities (throwing petals, blessing the couple, etc.)
- Clarify photography/videography policies
- Explain any religious observances or protocols
20+ Indian Wedding Invitation Wording Samples
Hindu Wedding Invitations
Sample 1: Formal Traditional
With family blessings and joyful hearts, we invite you to celebrate the marriage of
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
Together with our families, we request the honor of your presence for the wedding celebrations beginning with
Mehendi and Sangeet
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name], [City]
Indian attire encouraged
Wedding Ceremony
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name], [City]
Traditional formal wear
Reception
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name], [City]
Formal wear / Indian formal wear
Sample 2: Warm and Modern
With immense joy and gratitude, we invite you to be part of our celebration as
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
begin their new chapter together.
Join us for a weekend of traditions, family, and love as we celebrate across multiple ceremonies. Whether you're dancing at Sangeet, witnessing our ceremony, or celebrating at the reception, your presence means everything to us.
Sample 3: Bilingual (English and Hindi Transliteration)
With blessings from our families, we joyfully invite you to witness
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
's Wedding
Celebrating together with family traditions and modern joy.
All Events Across [Dates]
Sample 4: Contemporary with Cultural Context
We're getting married!
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
From Mehendi to Reception—join us for a celebration that honors our heritage while creating new memories with the people we love most.
Sikh Wedding Invitations
Sample 5: Anand Karaj Ceremony Focus
With loving family blessings, we invite you to celebrate the Anand Karaj of
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
Together with our families, we warmly welcome you to be part of this joyful occasion.
Pre-Ceremony Celebration
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name]
Anand Karaj Ceremony
[Date], [Time] | [Gurdwara Name]
Respectful formal attire requested
Reception and Langar
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name]
Sample 6: Warm Community Tone
Our hearts are full as we invite you to celebrate the Anand Karaj of
[Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]
In the joy of this union, we welcome you to join our families for celebrations that blend tradition, community, and love.
Muslim Wedding Invitations
Sample 7: Nikah and Walima
With grateful hearts and family blessings, we invite you to celebrate the marriage of
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
Nikah Ceremony
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name]
Modest formal wear requested
Walima Reception
[Date], [Time] | [Venue Name]
Formal wear / Indian formal attire
Sample 8: Modern Islamic Celebration
We're delighted to invite you to celebrate
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
as they begin their journey together in faith and love.
Join us for meaningful ceremonies and joyful celebrations with family and friends.
South Indian Wedding Invitations
Sample 9: Tamil Wedding
With family blessings and joyful hearts, we invite you to the wedding of
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
Celebrating South Indian traditions across a weekend of ceremonies.
Mehendi Celebration | [Date, Time, Venue]
Sangeet and Haldi | [Date, Time, Venue]
Wedding Ceremony | [Date, Time, Venue]
Reception Dinner | [Date, Time, Venue]
Sample 10: Telugu Wedding
Our families joyfully invite you to witness
[Bride's Name]
and
[Groom's Name]
's Wedding
Honoring traditions while creating cherished memories together.
Gujarati Wedding Invitations
Sample 11: Multi-Day Celebration
With joy bursting from our hearts, we invite you to celebrate
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
A weekend of traditions, dancing, colors, and love!
Mehendi Night | [Date] at [Venue] | Festive Indian wear
Sangeet Celebration | [Date] at [Venue] | Traditional Indian attire
Wedding Ceremony | [Date] at [Venue] | Formal Indian wear
Reception Bash | [Date] at [Venue] | Formal wear / Indian formal wear
Sample 12: Warm and Contemporary
We're thrilled to invite you to our Indian wedding celebration!
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
From Mehendi colors to Wedding vows—join us for celebrations filled with family, tradition, and lots of joy!
Additional Formal Samples
Sample 13: Formal Invitation (Multiple Families)
Together with their families,
[Bride's Parents' Names]
request the honor of your presence at the marriage of
[Bride's Name]
to
[Groom's Name]
Ceremony details and reception information included below...
Sample 14: Casual and Personal
Hey everyone! You're invited to celebrate
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
's Wedding
We're blending traditions with modern vibes, and we want you there for all of it. From the Mehendi to the last dance at Reception—let's celebrate together!
Sample 15: Bilingual Gujarati/English Invitation
With joyful hearts, we invite you to celebrate
[Bride's Name] અને [Groom's Name]
Wedding Celebrations Across [Dates]
[All event details in English and Gujarati]
Ceremony-Specific Samples
Sample 16: Mehendi Invitation Card (Standalone)
You're invited to the Mehendi of [Bride's Name]!
Celebrate henna, colors, music, and the joy of the bride surrounded by her favorite people.
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time] to [Time]
Location: [Venue], [City]
Dress Code: Indian festive wear / Bright colors encouraged
Sample 17: Sangeet Card (Standalone)
Join us for an evening of music, dance, and celebration!
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]'s Sangeet
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time]
Location: [Venue]
Dress Code: Traditional Indian attire
Be prepared to dance, sing, and celebrate!
Sample 18: Reception Card (Standalone)
Reception Dinner & Celebration
You're invited to dance, dine, and celebrate
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time]
Location: [Venue], [City]
Dress Code: Formal wear / Indian formal attire
Contemporary Samples
Sample 19: Minimalist Modern
[Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]
Together with our families, we invite you to celebrate our wedding.
[Event details organized cleanly]
Sample 20: Casual Digital/Social
We're getting married! 💕
[Bride's Name] + [Groom's Name]
Save these dates for our wedding celebrations:
- Mehendi | [Date]
- Sangeet | [Date]
- Ceremony | [Date]
- Reception | [Date]
More details coming soon!
Sample 21: Multicultural Blend
With joy and gratitude, we invite you to celebrate
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
Our wedding honors [culture/traditions] while creating something uniquely ours—and we want you to be part of it.
Wedding Invitation Etiquette for Multicultural Weddings
Understanding Your Guest List
In the US, Indian weddings often include guests from diverse cultural backgrounds. Thoughtful etiquette means:
- Explaining traditions clearly: Briefly note what ceremonies are and why they matter
- Providing pronunciation guides: If names or terms are unfamiliar, help guests pronounce them correctly
- Offering context without over-explaining: Strike a balance between honoring your culture and overwhelming guests with details
- Respecting dietary choices: Ask about vegetarian/vegan/religious dietary needs
Dress Code Clarity
Clear dress code instructions prevent confusion and discomfort:
- Specify if Indian attire is "encouraged" or "required": Many US-Indian families want guests in traditional wear for ceremonies but accept Western formal wear as an alternative
- Explain modesty requirements: If the ceremony requires covered shoulders or knees, state this respectfully
- Suggest options: "Sarees, lehengas, sherwanis, or formal Western wear"
- Color guidance: For Mehendi, suggest bright colors; for formal ceremonies, mention traditional colors like red, gold, pink, or cream
Timing and Multiple Events
Respect guests' time and provide clear calendars:
- Send invitations 6-8 weeks in advance for multi-event weddings
- Be explicit about which events are mandatory vs. optional: Do you expect guests at every ceremony, or can they skip some?
- Include travel information: Provide hotel suggestions, transport details, and parking information
- Consider guest fatigue: A 4-5 day wedding celebration is intense; acknowledge this and provide rest time
RSVP Management
Indian wedding invitations typically request RSVPs with more detail than Western weddings:
- Ask for dietary restrictions early
- Request plus-one confirmation
- Inquire about guest names (for seating arrangements in Indian weddings, proper name usage is important)
- Provide multiple RSVP methods (phone, email, online portal)
Invitation Phrasing for Mixed Guest Lists
When inviting non-Indian guests or those unfamiliar with your traditions:
- Open with warmth rather than cultural terms they might not understand
- Translate or explain terms like "Mehendi," "Sangeet," and "Shagun"
- Include a brief, one-sentence explanation of each ceremony
- Use inclusive language: "We'd love to celebrate with you" rather than assuming shared knowledge
Wedding Invitation Stationery Options
1. Letterpress Invitations
What they are: Designs pressed into thick cardstock, creating raised texture and elegant depth.
Why choose letterpress:
- Premium, heirloom quality
- Tactile and memorable
- Perfect for formal, traditional weddings
- Pairs beautifully with metallic inks and colored cardstock
Best for: Formal Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim weddings; couples wanting a luxury feel
Cost: $3-8 per invitation (including envelope)
2. Foil-Stamped Invitations
What they are: Designs with metallic foil (gold, silver, rose gold) applied to cardstock or specialty paper.
Why choose foil:
- Eye-catching and elegant
- Works well with traditional motifs and modern design
- Reflects light beautifully in photos
- Premium feel at moderate cost
Best for: Gujarati, South Indian, and contemporary Indian weddings; designs featuring traditional patterns or geometric shapes
Cost: $2-5 per invitation
3. Hand-Painted and Illustrated Invitations
What they are: Custom watercolor, calligraphy, or illustration designs on specialty paper.
Why choose hand-painted:
- Uniquely personal and artistic
- Tells a story about your couple or culture
- Often includes intricate details reflecting heritage
- Truly one-of-a-kind
Best for: Couples wanting maximum personalization; families with artistic talents; modern couples honoring traditions artistically
Cost: $4-12 per invitation (highly variable based on artist)
4. Laser-Cut Invitations
What they are: Invitations with intricate die-cut or laser-cut designs, often incorporating traditional motifs.
Why choose laser-cut:
- Showcases intricate traditional patterns (jali, rangoli designs, mandala patterns)
- Creates depth and visual interest
- Works with layered materials (cardstock + vellum, cardstock + colored paper)
- Modern production of traditional designs
Best for: South Indian, Gujarati, and contemporary traditional weddings
Cost: $2-8 per invitation
5. Digital and Eco-Friendly Options
What they are: Digital designs sent via email, WhatsApp, or printed on sustainable materials.
Why choose digital:
- Environmentally conscious
- Cost-effective for large guest lists
- Easy to update information
- Can include video elements or music
- Perfect for tech-savvy guests
Why choose sustainable paper:
- Eco-friendly production
- Still offers premium feel
- Aligns with modern values
Best for: Younger couples; large wedding parties; environmentally conscious families
Cost: Free to $1 per invitation (digital); $1-3 (sustainable printing)
Black and White Invitation Design Inspiration
Black and white invitations offer timeless elegance while allowing for sophisticated design focus.
Design Strategies for Black and White Invitations
1. Ornate Borders with Minimalist Text
- Intricate black borders featuring traditional motifs
- Clean, simple white space with black text
- Creates contrast and visual interest without color
2. Calligraphy and Typography Focus
- Feature elegant calligraphy for couple's names
- Use varied font sizes and weights for hierarchy
- Incorporate decorative flourishes in black ink
3. Geometric Patterns and Mandala-Inspired Designs
- Black geometric patterns reflecting traditional designs
- Central mandala or pattern with event details
- Modern execution of traditional aesthetics
4. Photography-Based Designs
- Beautiful couple photograph in black and white
- Surrounding graphic elements in black
- Creates personal, modern, and sophisticated feel
5. Illustrated Elements
- Custom black and white illustrations of traditional motifs
- Line drawings of wedding symbols or cultural elements
- Simple, clean aesthetic
Color Enhancement Options for Black and White Base
While keeping the primary design black and white, enhance with:
- Colored cardstock: Cream, ivory, light gray, or pastel backgrounds
- Single accent color: One metallic ink (gold or silver) with black and white design
- Envelope liners: Subtle color inside envelope while exterior remains black and white
Message Samples for Different Invitation Styles
Formal Invitation Message
With immense joy and gratitude, we are honored to invite you to celebrate the marriage of
[Full Names of Bride's Parents]
request the honor of your presence at the marriage of
[Bride's Full Name]
to
[Groom's Full Name]
The wedding ceremony will take place on [Date] at [Time] at [Venue Name].
Following the ceremony, we cordially invite you to join us for dinner and reception at [Time] at [Venue Name].
In appreciation of your presence and blessings,
[Names]
Casual Invitation Message
Hey! We're getting married!
[Bride's Name] & [Groom's Name]
We're so excited to celebrate with you across a weekend of traditions, dancing, and amazing food. Whether you make it to Mehendi, Sangeet, the ceremony, or just the reception—your presence matters to us.
Can't wait to see you there!
Warmly,
[Names]
Bilingual Invitation Message (English & Transliterated Hindi/Punjabi)
[English section with formal invitation wording]
[Hindi/Punjabi transliteration of key elements]
"With family blessings and joyful hearts" = "Parivar ke ashirwad aur khushi ke saath"
Multi-Family Invitation Message (When Both Sets of Parents Co-Host)
Together with our families,
[Bride's Parents' Names]
and
[Groom's Parents' Names]
joyfully invite you to celebrate the wedding of
[Bride's Name] and [Groom's Name]
With gratitude and love,
[All parents' names]
Personal Note Addition (After Main Invitation)
A personal note can follow the formal invitation:
"Your presence at our celebrations means so much to us. We look forward to sharing this special time with you and creating memories together. If you have any questions or special needs, please don't hesitate to reach out."
Balancing Cultural Traditions with Modern Style
Design Elements That Honor Traditions While Staying Contemporary
1. Traditional Motifs with Modern Layout
- Use traditional patterns (rangoli, jali, paisley) as graphic elements
- Present them with clean, minimal surrounding design
- Combine traditional colors with modern fonts
2. Bilingual Presentation (Modern Accessibility)
- Include English and mother tongue transliteration
- Use it as a design element, not an afterthought
- Create visual balance with both languages
3. Storytelling Through Design
- Include couple's engagement story or "how we met"
- Incorporate subtle cultural elements meaningful to the couple
- Modernize this through minimalist design and current typography
4. Color Palettes That Blend Both Worlds
- Traditional + Modern: Rich gold with white and black
- Cultural + Contemporary: Deep red with cream and rose gold
- Heritage + Trendy: Blush pink with navy and metallic accents
- Bold + Balanced: Jewel tones with minimalist design elements
5. QR Codes for Details
- Scan for ceremony explanation videos
- Link to wedding website with traditions explained
- Modern functionality while honoring tradition
6. Multiple Format Invitations
- Physical invitation for formal feel (honoring tradition)
- Digital version for ease of sharing (modern convenience)
- WhatsApp-friendly design for sharing within family groups
Narrative Approach: Explaining Traditions in Invitation Copy
Rather than assuming knowledge, tell the story:
"Our wedding celebration spans multiple ceremonies, each with special meaning. The Mehendi celebrates the bride's joy with her loved ones. The Sangeet is an evening of music and dance. The ceremony itself honors [cultural/spiritual] traditions. The Reception is our way of thanking everyone who helped bring us together."
This approach:
- Educates without condescending
- Invites all guests to feel included
- Creates a cohesive narrative
- Helps guests understand the "why" behind traditions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Unclear Information Architecture
- Don't scatter event details across multiple pages
- Create a clear, easy-to-read timeline
- Use consistent formatting for each event
2. Unclear Dress Code Instructions
- "Formal" alone doesn't help US-based guests
- Specify "Indian formal wear" or "Traditional ethnic attire"
- Provide examples: "Sarees, lehengas, sherwanis, or Western formal wear"
3. Inadequate RSVP Details
- Don't assume guests know how to respond
- Provide phone, email, AND online options
- Include an RSVP deadline clearly marked
4. Overwhelming Guests with Unfamiliar Terms
- Define "Mehendi," "Sangeet," "Shagun" first use
- Explain ceremony significance briefly
- Assume some guests have never attended an Indian wedding
5. Inconsistent Tone Between Events
- If your Mehendi invitation is casual, your Ceremony shouldn't be overly formal (unless very formal wedding)
- Maintain consistent voice throughout stationery
6. Ignoring Accessibility
- Use readable font sizes (minimum 11pt for body text)
- Ensure good contrast between text and background
- Provide digital alternatives to physical invitations
- Include phone numbers for guests who may need to call
Planning Your Indian Wedding in the US: Use Lumhe for Seamless Coordination
Creating beautiful invitations is just the beginning. Managing your Indian wedding's multiple functions, diverse guest lists, and cultural celebrations requires coordination that honors both tradition and modern logistics.
Lumhe is a unified celebration platform designed specifically for Indian weddings in the US. Here's how it simplifies your wedding management:
Upload and Share Your Invitations
Upload your invitation—whether as an image, video, or PDF—directly to Lumhe. Create a beautiful digital presence for your wedding while keeping all event details in one place.
Organize Multiple Functions with Separate Guest Lists
- Add each function (Mehendi, Sangeet, Ceremony, Reception) with custom details
- Maintain separate guest lists for each event—some guests may attend only select ceremonies
- Manage RSVPs for each function independently
- Track dietary preferences and special needs for every event
Find and Connect with Your Guests
Lead with people discovery—Lumhe lets you search for and connect with your guests by name, phone, or email. No more hunting through spreadsheets or wondering if you have complete contact information.
- Build a unified guest database across all functions
- Send reminders and updates directly through the platform
- Manage plus-ones and group invitations effortlessly
- Keep all guest communication in one secure location
Collect Memories Through Moments
Create a dedicated space where guests can share photos, videos, and messages from your celebration. Collect memories organically as they happen, with guests contributing throughout the wedding weekend.
Share Digital Gifts with Digital Lifafa
Move beyond traditional gift-giving with Digital Lifafa—Lumhe's money gifting feature that functions like a modern Shagun. Compare it to Venmo or Zelle: guests can send digital gifts securely and conveniently, right from the platform. It's a contemporary approach to traditional gift-giving that works seamlessly for US-based celebrations.
Share Across Any Platform
Generate a simple link to your Lumhe celebration and share it on WhatsApp, email, Facebook, or any platform. Your guests can access all details, RSVP, share memories, and gift—all in one place.
Explore Lumhe here and discover how to streamline your Indian wedding planning while keeping tradition at the heart of your celebration.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding invitation is a beautiful introduction to your celebration. Whether you choose letterpress elegance, foil-stamped sophistication, hand-painted artistry, or digital convenience, let your invitation reflect both your cultural heritage and your unique love story.
As you craft your invitations, remember:
- Honor your traditions while welcoming diverse guests
- Be clear with details, dress codes, and timing
- Be warm in tone, whether formal or casual
- Be inclusive by explaining customs and offering context
- Make it beautiful—this invitation is a keepsake your guests will treasure
From the first "Mehendi" to the final "Reception," your invitations set the stage for celebrations filled with family, tradition, love, and joy.
Last Updated: March 2026