Indian weddings can be described as a splash of colors on the canvas of beauty with the brush of tradition! Shades of red, green, yellow and what not! Every color makes its special appearance in the customs and events. There is a definite importance attached to each color in an Indian Wedding. Every color is special !
Fifty shades of red
Red is the color of strength and ferocity, and at the same time symbolizes good luck and prosperity. This feisty color can be seen a lot in Indian weddings, in the tradition of Sindhoor to the hot chilli that cannot be ignored in Indian delicacies. Red can also be used to represent sensuousness and fertility.
Fifty shades of yellow
Yellow is a very auspicious color, showing it’s presence in haldi and gold jewelry. A bride is never complete without gold jewelry in different shapes and sizes. Haldi( Turmeric) is prominently used in pre-marriage rituals and is scientifically useful to bring the “wedding glow” to the bride’s face and body.
Fifty shades of green
Green symbolizes new life and fertility, and the lush beauty of plants. It forms itself in the green mehendi of the bride, for whom marriage represents a new beginning. Indian brides wear green for good luck for their new endeavor in their in-laws’ house. Marriage decorations never forget to involve leaves and plants to give them a natural feeling.
Fifty shades of white
White shows purity, virginity, truth and peace. White is typically used in Christian wedding to depict the peaceful union of two souls. The purity and happiness of the bride is reflected in the white gown of the blushing bride. In South Indian weddings Jasmines are an important part of the bride’s hair adornments. This is because they arouse desires in the couple and also signify the elegance and love of the entire set of customs.
Fifty shades of black
Black is not a lucky color as it generally represents ill events and death or loss. However it is also used in an ironic way to ward off evil spirits and keep us safe from dark magic. This can be found in an age old custom amongst South Indians where a bride/groom is often traditionally blessed with a little black dot (bugga chukka) on the chin or under the ear to ward off the evil eye (dishti). The mangalsutra(sacred thread) consists of black beads on string, which are believed to bestow it with divine powers to save the husband of the wearer from harm and protect the marriage. This is also the reason why young un-married ladies are advised to take part in the arranging of these black beads in the mangalsutra, to ensue quick and happy marriage. Black bangles usually symbolize power.
