A Guide to Indian Wedding Rituals

Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and extravagance, and they are often celebrated over several days with various traditional functions. Here are some of the most common Indian wedding functions:

1. Engagement Ceremony

   The engagement ceremony, also known as Sagai or Ring ceremony, marks the official announcement of the wedding. The groom's family gifts the bride-to-be a ring and the bride's family gifts the groom-to-be a watch or a ring.

    

2. Mehendi Ceremony

   This is a fun-filled pre-wedding function where the bride and her female friends and family members get intricate henna designs applied on their hands and feet.

    

3. Sangeet Ceremony

   This is a musical night, typically held a day or two before the wedding, where the families of the bride and groom perform dance and music numbers to celebrate the upcoming nuptials.

    

4. Haldi Ceremony

   This is a traditional pre-wedding ceremony where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom's body. It is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

    

5. Baraat Ceremony

   The groom and his family arrive at the wedding venue on horseback or in a decorated car or carriage, accompanied by music and dancing.

    

6. Wedding Ceremony

   The wedding ceremony varies depending on the region and religion of the couple, but it typically involves the exchange of vows and rings, and the tying of the sacred thread or mangalsutra around the bride's neck.

    

7. Reception

   The wedding reception is usually held on the same day or the following day after the wedding ceremony. It is a grand celebration where the newlywed couple is introduced to the guests and they receive blessings and gifts.

    

These are just a few of the many functions that make up an Indian wedding. Each function has its own significance and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy.