A STEP-BY-STEP OF AN INDIAN CEREMONY

Indian weddings are truly a beautiful event full of tradition. Below is a brief outline of how a ceremony might go and the meanings behind each stage:

  • The Baraat: the arrival of the groom on either a horse or an elephant (Have seen both in my time). This is a fun event that allows the groom’s side to dance and celebrate before the coming ceremony.

  • Meeting of the Families: the bride’s family greets the groom’s family at the end of the baraat. At this time the bride and groom exchange garlands, called the Milni.

  • Ganesh Puja: the Pandit begins the ceremony with a prayer to Ganesh.

  • Kanya Aagman: arrival of the bride. She is escorted to the mandap, usually both sets of parents and siblings are seated.

  • Jai Mala: the wedding couple exchange the sacred garlands.

  • Aachman: purification of the bride and groom. They take water and drink it from the palms of their hands.

  • Agni Pradipan: the sacred fire is lit, signifying the power and purity of the ceremony.

  • Madhuparka: the bride’s family offers yogurt and honey to the groom with a prayer, signifying that he will work to be pure and kind.

  • Kanya Daan: the bride is given away to the groom by placing the bride’s right hand in the groom’s hand. The groom is now entrusted to care for the bride and love her.

  • Shila Rohan: the rock ceremony is for the bride to show her courage by stepping on a rock and proving she will support her husband throughout their life together.

  • Mangal Fera: the bride and groom walk around the fire four times, each time signifies something different; duty, prosperity, love, and spiritual liberation.

  • Saptapadi: the seven sacred steps are the first that a couple takes together in their new life.

  • Mangal Sutra-Sindoor Daan: a beaded necklace is tied around the bride’s neck and the sindoor (red powder) is put onto the bride’s scalp symbolizing she is married.

  • Kansar: the exchanging of the rings is the final step to show the unity between the bride and groom.

  • Ashirvaad: the Pandit gives the final blessing for the future of the newly married couple!

  All steps are deep in meaning and tradition.