Marriages are wonderful because they are filled with tomorrows. It is an occasion that ties everyone with rollercoaster of emotions. Marriages are said to be more luxurious especially in India. The best part about Indian weddings is the customs and traditions that have been practiced till now. From starting your day with multiple rituals in heavy-layered clothes without compromising make-up to ending your day with eyes full of tiredness and joy. Indian weddings are not for beginners! Let us explore 10 marriage practices that are happening in various parts of India.
1. Kumbh Vivah
When an individual is born with a Manglik dosha, they are believed to be cursed. They also face difficulties in finding the right partner. To prevent this, they undergo a ritual called Kumbh Vivah, where the bride is supposed to marry a banyan tree or a peepal tree before marrying their partner.
2. Balancing Pots
It is considered to be a fun and challenging ritual, where the bride is supposed to balance a series of pots on their heads. She should simultaneously touch the feet of her elders. This symbolizes the bride’s ability to balance the responsibilities she faces in this new phase of life.
3. Stealing the shoes
The sisters, cousins, and other female relatives of the bride are considered to be the culprits. Why? Because they steal the groom’s shoes when he sits for the wedding rituals. The groom is supposed to pay an amount to retrieve his shoes. This is a humour ritual above all.
4. Breaking a Pot
Breaking a pot is a traditional Hindu marriage ritual that happens mostly in the southern part of India. The groom should break a pot that is filled with curd or buttermilk with his right foot. This means that he is ready to face all the obstacles in his marriage life. To add an extra level of fun, the bride’s family makes it more challenging for the groom by creating obstacles.
5. Blackening the Bride
It is a tradition where the bride's face will be mixed with substances like curd, turmeric, and mustard oil before the wedding day. It is done to evict bad luck or evil eyes and bring good luck. These customs are engaged with music, dance, and laughter.
6. Crying Ritual
The crying custom exposes the emotions of the bride and her family members while she leaves her home after marriage. It shows the bride’s love and respect for her parents and relatives. Some believe that these happy tears will bring good luck and blessings to the couple.
7. Nose Ring Ceremony
Nose rings are known for its aesthetic value. It is a beautiful feminine accessory that makes the bride look more elegant. The groom presents the nose ring to the bride. It is believed that wearing it represents that the bride is committed to her husband. It displays the financial situation and position of the bride in society.
8. Rice Throwing
Rice is considered a symbol of wealth, which is why it is used. Daughters are the happiness of the house. When the bride leaves her house, she throws the rice backward, wishing her house would be full of wealth. In some other states, they believe that the bride shows her gratitude by tossing the rice at her parent’s house. The couple is showered with rice grains by the guests, along with their blessings for their future. The sound of rice grains hitting the ground brings harmony to the couple's life journey.
9. Mirror Ritual
It is also known as "Kannikadhanam" or "Kasi Yatra." The mirror tradition symbolizes the unity of two individuals (the bride and groom) and their families. A mirror is held straight, reflecting the couple's images together. It defines their commitment to each other by joining their two families into one.
10. Groom's Procession
It is an important tradition where the groom, along with the groomsmen and his family members, enters the venue to meet his bride. It is also known as the "baraat," which symbolizes the groom's anticipation of marrying. The groom rides a decorated horse or an elephant with lively music, dancing, and fireworks. The members of the groom's family carry ornate umbrellas and perform traditional folk dances. It is a moment of honour for the groom to start a new chapter in his life.
Conclusion:
We had the quickest tour, where we found some fun-filled traditions and customs in India. Some customs may seem strange or unusual to others. But they hold significant meaning for the families involved. So, if you are ever at an Indian wedding, watch out for these unique customs. They add fun and show India's diverse culture. Embrace the joy, laughter, and love that fill the air, which makes the Indian wedding more memorable and heartwarming experience!
