Wedding traditions and customs vary greatly between cultures, ethnic groups, religions, countries, and social classes.
However Maharashtrian weddings are filled with rituals that are quite simple yet vibrant.
We would like to take you through some key rituals :
Shri Ganesh Prayers & Poonyahvachan: The wedding day ceremonies begin with Ganapati puja, to seek blessings of Lord Ganesha before any other rituals take place. Sonal’s maternal uncle will escort her to the lagna mandap (wedding stage), where the mangalashtakas (Sanskrit and Marathi holy verses) will be recited.
The Antarpat ritual: The antarpat is a silk shawl placed between the couple as they sit in the mandap and recite prayers. Sonal and Saurabh are not supposed to see each other. After the mantras are recited, the shawl will be removed.
The Sankalp ritual: After the holy verses are recited, the couple will see each other for the first time. Guests will shower akshata (unbroken rice grains) on the couple. Then the couple will exchange garlands.
The Kanyadan ritual: In kanyadan ceremony Sonal’s father will give her hand in the hands of Saurabh. After this, Saurabh will tie a mangalsutra around her neck and also apply sindoor (vermillion) in the centre of her hair parting. Sonal in turn will apply a sandalwood tikka on Saurabh’s forehead.
The Satapadhi ritual: (Seven Steps Together).
The couple has to walk seven steps together to signify the beginning of their journey through life together. Each step represents a marital vow:
First step: To respect and honor each other
Second step: To share each other’s joy and sorrow
Third step: To trust and be loyal to each other
Fourth step: To cultivate appreciation for knowledge, values, sacrifice and service
Fifth step: To reconfirm their vow of purity, love family duties and spiritual growth
Sixth step: To follow principles of Dharma (righteousness)
Seventh step: To nurture an eternal bond of friendship and love
The Karmasampati ritual: Sonal’s father, along with the newly married couple, will pray to the lord for his blessings. To add a dash of humour to the ceremony, Sonal’s brother will playfully twist Saurabh’s ear, reminding him of his responsibility towards his sister .
All this will be followed by a grand feast to mark the completion of wedding ceremonies.