Every family's wedding follows its own customs, but many Hindu weddings share a common set of rituals. Knowing what each one means makes the ceremony more meaningful for the couple and the guests. Your pandit will guide the exact order for your tradition.
Before the wedding
- Ganesh puja: prayers to Lord Ganesh to remove obstacles before the wedding begins.
- Haldi: turmeric paste applied to the bride and groom for blessings and glow.
- Devak or kuldevata puja: in many Maharashtrian families, prayers to the family deity before the wedding.
The wedding ceremony
- Welcome of the groom: the bride's family receives the groom and his family with respect.
- Antarpat: in Maharashtrian weddings, a cloth is held between the bride and groom while mangalashtak verses are sung, then lowered as they see each other.
- Exchange of garlands: the couple accepts each other as partners.
- Kanyadaan: the bride's parents give their daughter's hand to the groom with blessings.
- Vivah havan: the sacred fire is witness to the marriage.
- Saptapadi: the couple takes seven steps together, each with a promise for their life ahead. In many traditions, this completes the marriage.
- Mangalsutra and sindoor: the groom ties the mangalsutra and applies sindoor, symbols of marriage in many communities.
After the ceremony
- Blessings from elders.
- Vidaai or sending off: an emotional farewell as the bride leaves with her new family.
- Griha pravesh: the bride's welcome into her new home.
Make it understood
You can print a small card explaining the main rituals for guests, or ask the pandit or an anchor to explain each step briefly during the ceremony.
Find verified pandits on Wedding Events who can guide your family's tradition step by step.