Indian Bride

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You are about to get married. You should know the traditional matrimonial rites, and its meaning. Matrimonial rites are performed in the presence of 'Agni' or fire, during the 'muhurath' or auspicious time.

The garlands for the wedding are made with fresh flowers, sanctified. The bride faces east and puts garland on groom's neck first, following the example set by Sita in Ramayana. It is important that the marriage is conducted with the consent of the girl.

The bride and groom, holding hands walk around 'Agni' or fire, seven times from the left, to sanctify the holy matrimony.

The next thing would be tying the 'mangal-soothra' (or thaali maala) around the girl's neck. Gold rings are exchanged, then. The name of the spouse is engraved on the ring, or may be just initials. After the ring exchange, 'sindoor' is put on the bride's forehead by the groom. Then he places a tray full of dress for the bride in her proffered palms. It is known as 'vasthra-daanam'. She accepts the tray respectfully and takes it to her eyes, first to the right eye. It is normally a very expensive saree, with a matching well stitched blouse. Just after 'vasthra-daanam', the girl's father takes the bride's right palm and places it on the right palm of the groom, giving her away symbolically. This is an equally important matrimonial rite, 'kanya-daanam'.

The bride and groom, takes seven rounds around 'agni' and the holy matrimony is solemnized and sanctified.

All the elders of the family go to them and pour blessings on them, by placing both their palms on their head. They, now husband and wife, seek blessings by touching their feet.

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