India. The embodiment of ‘Unity in Diversity’. The epitome of tradition and culture. The sanctum of holy scripts and rituals. A collage of multiple states and their unique ways not limited to food and festivals. Just as every place differs geographically, there are cultural differences that exist in India, which brings out a rich form of diversity profoundly observed in weddings.
In the kaleidoscope series we will be looking at wedding customs of different communities across India.
Punjabi Weddings
The Punjabis are known for their enthusiasm when it comes to celebrating. And weddings are the best possible occasion to celebrate, aren’t they?
The pre-wedding rituals include
• Roka: Inititating the bonding between two families.
• Sagan: Bride’s father invites the groom into his family
• Chunnichadana: The groom’s family gifts a red sari or chunni to the bride to symbolize auspiciousness and good luck
• Sangeet: A fun celebration of sorts! All the relatives come together to sing and dance.
• Mehendi: The bride’s sister/brother-in-law brings mehendi which adorns the hands and legs of the pretty bride
Wedding Rituals:
• Chuda ceremony: A set of white and red bangles are given to the girl which are not shown until a sacred puja is performed by elders.
• Haldi Ceremony: Turmeric paste is applied to the bride and grrom.
• Sehrabandi: Sehra( a pink turban with hangings) is tied to the grooms head
• Milni: Bride’s relatives give Shagun to the groom’s family
• Jaimala: Bride and Groom exchange garlands
• Saatphere and Kanyadaan: Bride’s father gives away the bride to the groom’s hand and pours holy water to make the wedding official.
• The saatphere involve the couple taking seven rounds around a holy fire.
Post-Wedding Ceremonies:
• Vidai ceremony: The bride leaves her parents and throws a handful of rice towards her parental house, which symbolizes returning whatever she has taken.
• Reception: A grand event with various food items and dance.
