Marriage

In Hindu culture, marriage is considered to be a sacred and lifelong bond between a man and a woman. It is seen as a union of not just two individuals but also of two families and it is believed that a successful marriage brings blessings and prosperity for both families. Hindu marriage rituals are elaborate and have many pre-wedding and post-wedding ceremonies.

Some of the traditional pre-wedding rituals include:

• Sagai: This is the formal engagement ceremony where the bride and groom exchange rings and formally agree to the marriage.
• Mehendi: A ritual where the bride’s hands and feet are adorned with henna designs.
• Sangeet: A musical event where the families of the bride and groom come together to sing and dance.
• Haldi: A ritual where turmeric and sandalwood paste is applied to the bride and groom’s body.

The main wedding ceremony, known as the “Vivaah” ceremony, is usually performed by a Hindu priest and is attended by the bride and groom’s families and friends. 

Some of the rituals that take place during the ceremony include:

• Kanyadaan: A ritual where the bride’s father gives her hand in marriage to the groom.
• Sindoor and Mangalsutra: A ritual where the groom applies sindoor (vermilion powder) on the bride’s forehead and ties a mangalsutra (sacred thread) around her neck.
• Saptapadi: A ritual where the couple takes seven vows together, promising to love and cherish each other for the rest of their lives.

Post-wedding rituals include reception and other ceremonies depending on the family and regional customs. Hindu marriages are considered to be a sacred bond between two individuals, and the ceremonies are full of rituals and traditions that are rich in symbolism and meaning.