The Sini Çıkarma tradition is an integral part of wedding ceremonies in Sevinçler Mahallesi, Demirci district of Manisa, embodying both social solidarity and festive entertainment. This centuries-old custom transforms the wedding morning into a lively communal celebration, involving the entire neighborhood.

^{Sini Çıkarma (Demirci Belediyesi)}

Structure and Process of the Ceremony

On the morning of the wedding, local youths unfurl a Turkish flag and, accompanied by drum and zurna music, visit the groom’s relatives at their homes. During these visits, some young men paint their faces black, taking on the role of “dayı başı” (a traditional figure), and dance in front of the musicians, adding joy to the neighborhood. This festive start leads into the collection of sinis (trays).

Each household is expected to present a sini filled with gifts for the newlyweds, typically including food, clothing, household items, towels, socks, or handkerchiefs. The household hands over the sini to the youths, who are called out with traditional local rhymes and sayings. Additionally, a voluntary monetary contribution is given to the flagbearer, which is later used for community charity projects or to meet the needs of the youth.

^{Sini Çıkarma (Demirci Belediyesi)}

Symbolic Punishments and Social Function

Beyond a gift-giving ritual, Sini Çıkarma serves as a demonstration of social responsibility and community participation. Relatives who fail to prepare a sini, show insufficient effort, arrive late to the wedding, neglect to bring food, or do not join in the games are subject to symbolic punishments by the neighborhood youth. The most common penalty is throwing the person into a water-filled trough. Other punishments may include smearing their face with soot or parading them through the village with pots or pans hung around their neck.

^{Sini Çıkarma (Demirci Belediyesi)}

These penalties, decided collectively by the village muhtar (village head) and the youths, are carried out in a lighthearted manner, ensuring no hard feelings. Those doused with water often join the festivities afterward, dancing to the drum and zurna, while villagers watch the spectacle with amusement from their balconies.

^{Sini Çıkarma (Demirci Belediyesi)}

Cultural and Social Significance

In Sevinçler Mahallesi, Sini Çıkarma is more than a wedding ritual—it is a cultural heritage that defines the community’s identity. Regarded by the muhtar and residents as an “inheritance from ancestors,” the tradition is celebrated with enthusiasm at every wedding. It fosters social cohesion, encourages sharing, and strengthens communal bonds, ensuring cultural continuity across generations.