The term Indian wedding is one of such a broad nature. There are so many different religions, practices and ceremonies. From the traditional Hindu; Islamic; and Knanaya Catholic Wedding. Not only are there religious subsets, there is also class system and differences varying by region.
Indian Weddings are extravagant, bright in color and rooted in tradition. Even in this modern day and era there are still arranged marriages being performed. While many Indian Brides and Grooms are living in the States and adopted westernized ideas, they still abide by deeply rooted traditions. Many couples of intermixed religious views or cultures they decide on having 2 wedding ceremonies to honor both families.
One of the most ritualistic wedding ceremonies, in the Hindu marriage ceremony. This ceremony takes place under a Mandap or wedding canopy. The four corners of the Mandap represent the four corners of the earth and the four pillars, represent the four parents and their roles in raising the couple. The couple sits facing the east, the direction the sun rises and they recite the holy verses that are described in the Vedas (Spiritual scriptures.)
Most Indian Weddings have many pre-marital ceremonies and can last an entire week. There are many pre-wedding ceremonies that can be performed and vary by the couples families preferences. Here are a few of the major ones most couples decide to partake in.
Misri (Ring ceremony/ Engagement party): Sweets and garlands are presented between the two families before gold wedding rings are exchanged. In many families, the bride's family presents a package called the Malti representing good luck and symbolizes acceptance of the union.
Mehendi/Mehndi or Henna Party: Mehndi is based mainly in "awakening the inner light" Mehndi signifies the strength of the love in a marriage, so many brides try to leave on as long as possible. Many times the groom's name or initials are hidden in the design of the mehndi. At this ceremony it is traditional for the bride to have mehndi placed on her hands and feet wile other guests will have them on their hands.
Sangeet Party (Musical Party) Music is the soul of any wedding ceremony, regardless of faith or origin. Without music & festivity, the wedding lacks sparkle. On the Sangeet night, entertainment is provided with the help of professional singers who sing 'ladas' and popular hindi songs. Family and friends eat, drink and dance the night away.
Sagri (Acquaintance) The sisters and female relatives of the groom visit the bride-to-be in her home. They bring with them perfume, cosmetics and flowers that are strung together in the form of earrings, bangles, hairpieces and garlands. The sisters adorn their sister-in-law to be with the flowers, suggesting their affection for her. The purpose of this ceremony is to increase familiarity between the bride and her new family, creating an atmosphere that is fragrant and beautiful.
Sagri (Acquaintance) The sisters and female relatives of the groom visit the bride-to-be in her home. They bring with them perfume, cosmetics and flowers that are strung together in the form of earrings, bangles, hairpieces and garlands. The sisters adorn their sister-in-law to be with the flowers, suggesting their affection for her. The purpose of this ceremony is to increase familiarity between the bride and her new family, creating an atmosphere that is fragrant and beautiful.
Ghari Puja: This is the final and most important religious custom that is performed on the eve of the wedding in the respective homes of the couple. the priest performs prayers with rice, coconut, wheat grains, oils, betel nuts and tumeric. The Mothers of the bride and groom enter carrying an earthen pot of water on their heads, they walk to the threshold of their homes. The sons-in-law of the respective families cut the water with a knife to ward off any evil spirits. The parents are adorned with garlands of flowers and money by their friends and relatives. Stay tuned for next week while we continue for the big day.
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