Wedding diaries

WeddingDiaries

1 Corinthians 13 : 4-8

“

Love is patient, love is kind.

It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

“

1

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

2

Wedding Diaries is a guide for all those who seek to know more about the rich cultural heritage ritual that has been passed down for generations within families. It is an account of all the different types of weddings that are witnessed in India. The country with a magnificent history and rich cultural diversity has been successful in creating a spectacle for the world. It makes every viewer gasp in awe of the wonders that this fertile land can provide. It leaves you mesmerised in sight of the universe, making you want more and more. This is a journal of a brides journey into her wedding.

3

Weddings in India The prize for most outrageous wedding in recent years goes to Vanisha Mittal, daughter of India’s second richest man, Lakshmi Mittal. The steel tycoon spared no expense on his youngest child’s nuptials at Palace of Versallies in France, which was estimated to have cost around $60 million!

Indian weddings are traditionally multi-day affairs, and involve many intricate ceremonies, such as the painting of the hands and feet of the bride in henna called mehndi.

Garlands are presented to guests of honor instead of corsages, and lots of flower or rose petals are thrown for good luck.The wedding is typically divided into three parts: pre-wedding, main, and post-wedding.

Marriage is considered as a sacred communion between the bride and groom along with their respective families.

Manusmriti, a book written by the sage Manu describes eight types of marriages in Hinduism namely:

Brahma Vivaha, Daiva Vivaha, Arsha Vivaha, Prajapatya Vivaha, Gandharva Vivaha, Asura Vivaha, Rakshasha Vivaha and Paishacha Vivaha.

Arranged marriages are still the most common types of marriages in India.

In arranged marriages the parents and elders decide who to get their respective ward married keeping in mind the caste and social status of the families involved.

This is considered to be the most stable form of matrimony but with changing times , parents are giving their children’s preference the utmost importance. Love marriages are also becoming very common because of their growing acceptance in modern India due to changing mind sets

4 and the technology boom.

From the onset mogul era Indian Marriages have become very pompous because of growing economic status of Indians. It usually includes Pre Marriage rites like betrothal or engagement, the actual marriage ceremony like jaymala and post marriage ceremonies like Griha Pravesh etc.

5

Wedding Business The big fat Indian wedding is not just a stereotype, it’s an entire economy by itself.

And the beauty of it all is that no matter what the general consuming climate, the wedding economy is pretty much recession proof. Nowhere is it better illustrated than

by India’s 750 crore designer wear industry, which is hugely dependent on the ‘bridal wear’ market. Thanks to the wedding economy, Indian fashion has managed to buck the current slowdown very well.

Fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani says, “Bridal is the most lucrative segment of the Indian fashion industry, sometimes making up to 5070% of a designer’s revenue.

As critical mass, we buy couture only for weddings which are lavish.”

Designer Raghavendra Rathore agrees. “The Indian high fashion industry is divided in two hemispheres - the western wear non-bridal and the festive, all bridal. The latter dominates the business of fashion and the other half is mainly for creating a brand. So in terms of economics, the bridal service industry as a whole is the key factor why the industry is vibrantly alive regardless of fashion trends across the globe,” he says.

Costumes A Rajasthani bride wears a lehenga, a Punjabi bride wears a salwar-kameez, and a Maharashtrian bride wears a nine-yard saree on her special day. Most brides wear saris nowadays, usually in shades of red, pink or mustard. A bride sports as much traditional jewelry as her family can muster, for today, she is Goddess Lakshmi incarnate, harbinger of prosperity to her new home.

Like her clothes, the bride’s ornaments also differ according to local tradition. However, necklaces, earrings, bangles, rings, a nose-ring, anklets, and toe-rings are worn by most brides. Ornaments like armlets, tikas, hathaphula, and waistbands, traditionally important, are optional today and not worn in all areas.

Traditionally, the bride was adorned with natural beauty aids. For example, a paste of henna (Mehendi) was put over her nails, which stained them red. Her eyes were lined with kajal and scented water was sprinkled on her.

Today, however, most brides, both in the urban and rural areas, use branded

cosmetics and perfumes. In south India, flowers were, and remain, an important adornment, while the north is now beginning to rediscover this pretty custom.

Most grooms in the north wear a sherwani with a churidar pyjama, a bandha-gala suit, or a western-style suit. Turbans are also very popular, for the groom and the important members of his entourage. In the South, grooms either wear the traditional veshti (dhoti) and jubba (kurta) or a threepiece suit. North Indian grooms set forth to their weddings adorned with a sehera, a veil of flowers tied to the turban, to screen their faces from the evil eye (scarecrow).

Illustration by snapgalleria via shutterstock

6

7

Hindu Bride Hinduism gives a lot of importance on sacred institute of matrimony. It is not only a personal event but also a social event, as it is witnessed by the whole society. It marks the beginning of Grihasth Ashram for the couple.

The Hindu matrimonial is very symbolic one; each tradition has its own meaning and importance for successful matrimony.

Hindus consider matrimony to be an alliance not only for the present life but also the upcoming seven lives. Hindu matrimony

believes marriage to be a heavenly union witnessed by all the gods and devas themselves. The roots for these customs and traditions in Hindu matrimony are very ancient. Few of the traditions have survived the invasions of time and are still prevalent like the prime witness for wedding is the god of fire or the Agni Dev or the tradition of sath phere or seven circuits around the agni kund each step signifying a vow between the couple.

There are a few key rituals common in a Hindu wedding ceremony. These are: • KANYADAAN – the giving away of daughter by the father • PANIGRAHANA – a ritual in presence of fire, where the groom takes the bride’s hand as a sign of their union • SAPTAPADI – is the most important ritual. It is called the seven step ritual, where each step corresponds to a vow groom makes to bride, and a vow the bride makes to groom. The vows are pronounced in Sanskrit in long form, or short quicker form, sometimes also in the language of the groom and bride. In many weddings, Saptapadi is performed near a fire; and after each of the seven oaths to each other, the groom and bride perform the ritual of agnipradakshinam – walk around the fire, with the end of their garments tied together. The groom usually leads the bride in the walk. The fire is a form of yajna – a vedic ritual where fire is the divine witness (to the marriage). After Saptapadi, the couple are considered husband and wife.

9

Maharashtrian Bride Out of all the different regional weddings in India, Maharashtrian weddings are filled with rituals that are quite simple yet vibrant. Most of their wedding ceremonies are conducted during the day. The process begins by matching the bride and the groom’s horoscopes. If their horoscopes match perfectly, then an auspicious date is fixed for the wedding and other ceremonies.

Though the specific rituals may vary according to the customs and beliefs of the people, here are some of the important rituals of a traditional Maharashtrian wedding.

Pre Wedding Rituals Sakhar Puda ceremony is the initial ritual which takes place in a Maharashtrain wedding. It can be termed as the engagement, wherein the bride is given a sari, and sweet or sugar, by the groom’s family. Next is the Kelvan ceremony, which is performed at both the bride’s and the groom’s house. It is a small puja of the kuldevta, followed by a meal.

After this, the Haldi ceremony takes place, wherein turmeric paste is applied to both the bride and the groom. This is known as Halad Chadavane. This is followed by Simant puja, wherein, once the groom arrives at the bride’s place; her parents wash his feet and give him gifts.

Wedding Rituals Antarpat is a silk shawl used to separate the bride and the groom. The maternal uncle of the bride brings her to the dias, where the mangalashtakas are recited. Then the shawl is removed and the couple sees each other for

the first time and exchange garlands. At this moment they are showered with unbroken rice. After this, the couple asks their parents for permission to get married. This is called the Sankalp ceremony. After this, the bride’s parents perform the Kanyadaan ritual, wherein they offer their daughter to the groom.

After Kanyadaan, the groom ties mangalsutra around bride’s neck and applies vermillion in her hair parting. She in return applies a sandalwood tilak on his forehead. Next is the Vivah Homa, which is conducted by the groom in assistance with the priest.

Following this is the Saptapadhi ritual, wherein the couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire, taking seven vows.

The wedding ceremony comes to an end with the Karmasampati ritual, wherein the bride’s father, the bride and the groom please Gods to bless the wedlock.

10

Post Wedding Rituals Grihapravesh is the first ritual conducted after wedding. The groom’s mother welcomes the new couple and washes their feet with milk and water. After this the traditional aarti is performed and the bride is asked to enter the house by knocking down a glass of rice, kept at the entrance. The couple enters the house with their right foot. Last but not the least Reception party is organized, wherein sumptuous food is served for the guests.

11

Muslim Bride Muslim marriage is known as ‘Nikah’ in Urdu. It is given great importance in the religion of Islam and is even mandatory for all. Though the wedding rituals of Muslim marriage vary greatly from the Hindu religion, it significantly lays emphasis on the union of two souls. There are even varied rituals performed before and after the wedding, which lead to the completion of the ceremony.

Pre Wedding Rituals The first wedding ritual is the Istikhara, wherein the religious head takes consent form Allah to perform the wedding. After it is done, the groom’s mather visits the bride’s house with sweets and Imam-Zamin, a silver or gold coin wrapped in silken cloth. It is tied by her onto the upper portion of the girl’s hand. This is called Imam-Zamin ceremony. The next is Magni, wherein the groom’s family members visit the brie’s house with sweets and fruits.

This is reciprocated by the bride’s family as well. Nowadays, the couple even exchanges rings.

After this the Manjha ceremony takes place, in which the bride is dressed in yellow clothes and turmeric paste is applied on her body.

After this, the bride is not supposed to step out of the house. Mehndi Ceremony is the next ceremony, which is held just before the marriage. During this ceremony, the hands and feet of the bride are adorned with henna designs. Subsequently, the Sanchaq ritual takes place, wherein the groom’s family sends clothes and jewelries for the bride, to be worn at Nikah and Chauthi.

Wedding Rituals On the main wedding day, the Baraat leaves for the bride’s house. On the wedding venue, they are given a hearty welcome and the groom enjoys a glass of sherbet with his brother-in-law. Soon after this, the Nikah is commenced. There are two religious heads present at the place, representing the two parties. The amount of Mehar, a compulsory amount of money to be given to the bride by the groom’s family is also decided. After this, the Maulavi asks the bride three times, whether she accepts the concerned person as her husband, with settled the amount of the Mehar.

After her consent, the groom is asked three times, whether he accepts the concerned woman as his wife, with the decided amount of Mehar. After his consent, the Nikahnama is signed by the couple. This is followed by the recital of Khutba, a religious discourse.

Blessings are showered upon the bride and the groom for a prosperous married life.

Following a lavish dinner, the couple is seated fact to face each other, with their heads covered by a dupatta. The Holy Quran and a mirror placed are placed between them, through which they are allowed to see each other for the first time. This is known as Aarsi Mushaf.

12 Post Wedding Rituals After the wedding rituals are over, the bride is bid farewell. This is called the Rukhsat ceremony. On reaching the groom’s house, his mother holds the holy Quran over the bride’s head as she enters the house. Next is the Valimah ceremony, which is a grand feast given by the groom’s guardians. Subsequently, the Chauthi custom is observed, as per which the couple visits her parental home for the first time after marriage. They are given a lavish feast and presents by the bride’s parents.

13

Gujarati Bride Gujaratis or the people of Gujarat are known for their rich, vibrant and colorful culture. Moreover, they are warm and cheerful, who are fond of celebrating festivals with fervor. This is quite evident in a Gujarati marriage as well. The wedding rituals in Gujarat are simple and filled with fun. The unique blend of traditions and ingenuousness is something which makes Gujarati weddings a sheer delight. Given below is vital information on Gujarati wedding rituals.

14

Pre Wedding Rituals The pre wedding rituals begin Mangal Mahurat ceremony. It is performed by both the bride and the groom in their respective houses. Prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha to remove all obstacles. After matching the horoscopes of the couple, Griha Shanti puja is held. This is done by the priest at the houses of both the bride as well as the groom. The next ritual is known as ‘Jaan’ and it is performed to ward off any evil. It is quite interesting as the groom visits the bride place and touches his mother in law’s feet to seek blessings. While he does so, she tries to clutch his nose and he tries to escape.

Wedding Rituals On the wedding day, the first ritual, which takes place, is the Jaimala, wherein the couple exchanges garlands twice.

Next is the Madhuparka ritual in which groom’s feet are washed and he is given honey and milk to drink. During this the sisters of the bride try to steal the groom’s shoes, known as ‘Juta Churai’. One of the most important rituals on the wedding day is Kanyadaan, in which the bride’s father washes groom’s feet and gives him the hand of his daughter. This is followed by Hasta Milap, wherein the groom’s shawl is tied with bride’s saree.

The tying of the holy knot and the joined hands of the couple, signify their union.

Rose petals and rice are showered upon them, during this time. After this, the couple takes rounds, around the scared fire, while the priest chants mantras. These are known as Mangalpheras. There are four pheras in Gujarati marriage. This is followed by Saptapadi, which are seven steps and vows taken by the couple together. Subsequently, they are blessed by their parents and elders.

Post Wedding Rituals Reception is post wedding ritual, wherein all the near and dear ones give gifts to the couple.

This is followed by the Vidaai ceremony, in which the bride is bid a tearful farewell by her family. On reaching the groom’s house, the bride is asked to knock down a vessel filled with rice, with her right foot, kept at the entrance. This ritual is known as Ghar Ni Lakshmi as the bride is considered form of Goddess Laxmi. Next is the fun filled ritual called Aeki Beki, which is a wedding game played by the couple. A vessel is filed with water and colored by putting sindoor and milk. After this, everal coins and a ring are put in it. Both the bride and the groom are then asked to find it. Whoever, succeeds four out of seven times is deemed to rule the household.

15

Punjabi Bride Punjabi marriages are known for their pomp and show. Just like the opulent culture of Punjab, Punjabi weddings are quite fun. They are conducted lavishly and celebrated with extreme gaiety. It is difficult to resist the fervor of these weddings as they comprise of traditional folk dances such as Bhangras and Giddas. To rejoice the special occasion like marriage, there are number of rituals, which are performed before and after the wedding. These rituals at times, seem to be just an excuse to celebrate and have fun.

Pre Wedding Rituals The first ritual is the Roka ceremony which is conducted to secure the commitment from both the parties. It is a small function which basically involves exchange of sweets, gifts, dry fruits etc. The next ritual is Sagan which is either held at the groom’s house or in banquet hall. The father of the bride applies tilak on the groom’s forehead and offers him gifts and sweets. This is followed by Chunni Chadana, wherein the groom’s family visits the bride’s house. The groom’s sister or sisterin-law presents the girl with a sari. After this, the mother-in-law places a red chunni on her head and gives her jewelry.

After this, the bride is fed boiled rice and milk by the groom’s family and the couple exchanges rings. Few days before marriage, the Sangeet ceremony takes place, in which the female members of the family sing and dance to celebrate the occasion. Just before marriage, Mehandi ceremony takes place.

In this, the sister and brother-in-law of the groom take mehndi to bride’s place. This mehandi is applied to the bride’s hands and feet. They also give dry fruits and dates, half of which are consumed by the bride and the other half by the groom.

Wedding Rituals Before the wedding, the bride is given red and white bangles to wear by her maternal uncle.

This is called the Chuda ceremony. In Ghara Ghardoli, the bride and the groom bathe with the water brought from the Gurudwara. On the main wedding day, a flower veil is tied on the groom’s forehead, after which he sits on the horse. These are called Sehrabandi & Ghodi Chadna rituals. On reaching the wedding venue, the bride and the groom exchange garlands. This is known as Varmala ceremony.

After this, they are taken to the mandap, where the father of the bride performs Kanyadaan. This is followed by Mangalpheras in front of the sacred fire.

Post Wedding Rituals After wedding, the bride leaves for her marital home and throws back handful of rice towards her parental house. This is known as the Vidaai ceremony. On reaching the groom’s house, the mother of the boy puts mustard oil on both the sides of the entrance door. Then she performs the traditional aarti and asks the newly wed couple to come inside and seek the blessings of the God. After this, a grand Reception party is thrown by the groom’s family. This is done to give a warm welcome to new couple.

17

Tamilian Bride Tamil marriages are not very showy and extravagant as Tamilians believe in simple living. Tamil people are very particular about their customs and traditions. However, Tamil weddings are attended by distant relatives and friends and hence are held on a large scale. There are many wedding rituals which are observed by them, without which the marriage is deemed incomplete.

Pre Wedding Rituals The wedding rituals begin with Panda Kaal Muhurtham, wherein the families of the bride and the groom pray to the Lord for an uninterrupted wedding ceremony. After this, the groom is welcomed with the traditional aarti by the bride’s side on the day before marriage. He is offered sweets, sprinkled with rose water and even a coconut is broken to ward off any evil. Next is Vratham, which is a small puja organized before marriage.

Following this is Pallikai Thellichal ceremony, as per which grains are sprouted in earthen pots, which are later immersed in a pond to feed the fishes.

The next ritual is Naandi, in which Brahmins are given gifts and sweets to seek their blessings for the wedding alliance.

Nicchiyadharatham is the formal engagement ceremony, wherein the bride and the groom exchange rings.

After this, the Reading of Lagna Pathirigai takes place, which is formally announcing the wedding and reading out aloud the wedding invitation, to inform everybody about the formalizing of the alliance.

Wedding Rituals On the day of the wedding, Mangala Snaanam takes place, as per which the bride and the groom take purifying bath. Before the bath, oil and haldi-kumkum are applied to them.

Another interesting ritual is Kashi Yatra, wherein the groom threatens everyone to leave for Kashi and lead a life of ascetic. He is stopped by the bride’s father, who promises to give his daughter to her. After this, the groom heads towards the mandap, where he meets the bride.

Then the exchange of garlands takes place between the bride and the groom. This is followed by the Oonjal ritual, wherein the couple is seated on a swing and given milk and banana to eat. Rice balls are used to prevent them from evil eye. This is followed

by Kanyadaanam, in which the bride’s father gives away his daughter to the groom. After this, Muhurtum ritual takes place wherein the groom ties mangalsutra and puts vermillion to the bride. Subsequently, they take seven rounds and seven vows around the sacred fire called Saptapadi.

18 Post Wedding Rituals After the wedding, both the families exchange gifts with each other. This is called Sammandhi Mariyathai. After all the wedding ceremonies are over, the bride leaves with her husband for her marital home. Here, she is welcomed by her new family with the traditional aarti. This is known as Grihapravesham. In the evening, the Reception party takes place, which is an informal event. The guests meet the newly wed couple and give them blessings. This is followed by sumptuous dinner.

19

Assamese Bride An Assamese marriage is the wedding ceremony which takes place in the state of Assam or between Assamese people. In Assamese language, the ceremony is known as Biya. Just like a Hindu wedding, an Assamese wedding also has pre wedding and post wedding rituals. It is simple and yet very elegant. One of the unique and indispensable characteristic of the wedding is the traditional ‘biya naam’ song.

Pre Wedding Rituals The pre wedding rituals include Juran ceremony, Tel Diya custom, Pani Tola & Nuani tradition. In Juran ceremony, the groom’s mother visits the house of the bride.

The bride’s mother greets her and gives her xhorai, brass plate with a stem. In Tel Diya custom, the groom’s mother puts a ring and betel on her daughter-in-law’s hair parting.

Over this she pours oil thrice. After this, she applies her sindoor and gives the wedding trousseau. It includes mekhla chadar, the traditional Assamese dress for women. In Pani Tola tradition, the mothers of the bride and the groom gather holy water for the ceremonial bath of the bride. According to Nuani tradition, the bride is given a bath to prepare her for the wedding.

Wedding Rituals The wedding rituals begin with the ceremonial bath of the bride and the groom. For this their respective mothers visit the nearby river and collect holy water. After this the wadding reception takes place, wherein sumptuous food is served to the guests, with fish and meat as the highlights. This is followed by the procession of the groom. When he finally reaches the venue, the bride’s family indulges in fun activities.

The groom’s procession is given entry into the bride’s home only after they pay a heavy price.

Subsequently, the bride’s mother welcomes him while the bride’s sister washes his feet.

Next, the brother of the bride lifts him to take him to the wedding hall. The groom is usually dress in dhoti, kurta and silk shawl. The bride

is given panch - amrit, before going to the hall.

It is a mixture of ghee, curd, honey, sugar and raw milk.

This is followed by a remarkable entry of the bride on the shoulders of her maternal uncle. Here, the wedding ceremony takes place in front of the sacred fire. The couple exchange garlands and takes vows amidst chanting mantras. After this, conch shells are blown and the groom puts vermillion in bride’s forehead. Friends and relatives then step forward to bless the newly wed couple.

After the wedding ceremony is over the couple moves to groom’s house where they are welcomed by the bridegroom’s mother with traditional aarti.

20

21

Oriya Bride Oriya marriage is associated with the state of Orissa. The wedding ceremony and rituals bears resemblance with the Hindu marriage ceremony but are certainly different in many aspects. Oriya people are not very showy and believe in simple living. This even reflects from the way their marriages are conducted. However, the interesting fact about an Oriya wedding remains that the mother of the groom does not take part in the ceremony.

Pre Wedding Rituals The wedding rituals begin with Jayee Anukolo ceremony, wherein invitation cards are distributed. After this, turmeric paste is applied on the bride’s body and given a holy bath, in a ritual called Mangan tradition. Diya Mangula puja is the next ritual, wherein the bride worships at Devi’s temple and offers bride’s bangles, sari, toe rings and sindoor.

Once the groom arrives at the wedding venue with the procession, it is called Barajatri. Then the bride is informed about the same, after which she takes a ceremonial bath. This ritual is known as Baadua Pani Gadhua custom.

Wedding Rituals During the wedding, the bride and the groom are taken to the mandap, where the Kanyadaan ritual is performed. In this ritual the father of the bride, gives away his daughter to the groom and asks him to take care of her.

Next is the Haatha Ghanti custom, wherein the bride and the groom take seven rounds, around the holy fire, amidst sacred hymns and shlokas. After the wedding ceremony is over, the bride leaves for her marital home.

Post Wedding Rituals Once the newly-wed couple reaches the groom’s place, they are given a warm welcome by his family. When the bride enters her marital home for the first time, it is known as the Grihapravesh. This is followed by the Astha Mangala custom. According to this ritual, the newly-wed couple visits the bride’s house, on the eighth day after marriage. Here, they are given a hearty welcome and treated with sumptuous food.

22

23

Bengali Bride

Bengali marriage ceremony takes place in the state of Bengal or between Bengali people. The wedding ceremonies in Bengal are quite long and elaborate. There are a number of rituals and ceremonies that take place during the wedding. The pre wedding and post wedding rituals provide ample opportunity to the loved ones to enjoy with each other. However, the traditional Bengali rituals are quite meaningful and interesting.

Pre Wedding Rituals Pre wedding rituals start with Vridhi Puja, which is done to rememeber the ancestors of the bride and the groom. This is followed by Dodhi Mangal ceremony, wherein ten married women bathe bride and groom. Later they are fed delectable traditional food. After this, the couple is seated on wedding Piris and both the families exchange gifts. Next is the Gae Halud Tattva ritual, in which the bride is sent gifts by her in laws.

The next is the Snan ritual, in which married women apply turmeric and oil to the couple.

After bathing and wearing new clothes, the bride wears the Sankha Poranas. She is then ornamented with jewelry and crown along with sandalwood paste on the face. After this, is finally taken to the mandap, which is made using two banana trees and ornamented with fresh flowers and lights. A rice powder Rangoli is also made nearby.

Wedding Rituals The wedding day rituals begin with welcoming the groom. An elderly female relative welcomes the groom with baran dala. It is a plate which is first touched to the forehead of the groom, then touched to the ground and then again touched to his forehead. After this, the groom is given sweets and sherbet. As he enters the house, rose water is sprinkled over him. The next is the Shubho Drishti ritual, wherein the bride and the groom see each other for the first time.

This is followed by Mala Badal ceremony, wherein they exchange garlands. The most important rituals on he wedding day are Saat Paak, during which the bride is seated on a wooden plank and lifted by her brothers.

Thereafter she is taken around the groom seven times, which signifies their union. In Sampradhan ritual the paternal and maternal uncles of the bride, give her away to the groom. After this, the Saptadi ritual takes place.

Post Wedding Rituals After the wedding the Basar Ghar ceremony takes place, wherein the newly wed couple is treated warmly and served delicious food.

On the next morning the Bashi Biye ritual takes place in which the groom applies vermilion on the bride’s forehead. After this, the Bidaai ceremony is held and the bride leaves with the groom for her mrital abode.

The first ceremony at groom’s place is Bou Baran, which is a welcome ceremony for the bride. The bride submerges her feet in a plate containing lac dye and milk and enters the house, leaving imprints. The next is the Bou Bhat ceremony. It is held as the bride eats her first meal in her husband’s house.

24

25

Bibliography http://www.beau-coup.com/indian-wedding-traditions.htm http://matrimonialblog.com/hindu-matrimony/2012/a-brief-history-of-hindu-marriages/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu_wedding https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Hindu_wedding https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_wedding http://www.kamat.com/kalranga/weddings/weddings.htm http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/muslim-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/oriya-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/gujarati-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/maharashtrian-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/punjabi-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/tamil-wedding.html http://www.culturalindia.net/weddings/regional-weddings/assamese-wedding.html http://melanged.com/karthika-and-abhinav/

WeddingDiaries