Hindu weddings ceremonies are filled with rich cultural traditions and customs from start to finish. Here are some of the usual traditions followed by Hindu’s during the matrimonial ceremony.

Hindu Engagement  - Upon the announcement of the betrothal, betel leaf and betel nut are ceremoniously exchanged with other gifts at the bride’s residence.

Gold Melting Ceremony (Ponn Urukku)  - Before the wedding, this ceremony is attended by parents and elders at which the groom will present a gold con to the family goldsmith to be melted to use for the bridal ‘Thaali’ (pendant).

Welcoming the Groom (Maapillai Varavetpu)  - At the entrance of the wedding hall, the bride’s parents will welcome the groom with a flower garland. The groom’s feet are made wet with water and in return the groom rewards the best man with a gold ring for his good grace.

Giving away of the Bride (Kannika Thanam)  - With betal and coconut in hand, the bride’s father will place his hand in the groom’s hand indicating that the groom accepts to cherish and protect her. The mother would trickle down water into the hands of her husband who will give a gold coin to the groom as a symbol of giving away the bride.  The groom will give the coin to his parents to signify the acceptance of the bride into the family.

The Nuptial Knot (Thaali Kattu)  - The groom will stand and tie the Thaali – chain around the bride’s neck and will place a red dot on her forehead with a finger. Simultaneously, they are blessed by a shower of flowers.

Receiving Blessings (Aseervaatham)  - The priest will first bless the couple by showering them with rice which symbolizes happiness, prosperity and fertility.  The priest will be followed by the groom’s parents, the bride’s and their close relatives and guests. The ceremony will end with an Arathi with the newlyweds standing at the Manavarai.

Source: www.manaali.com/hindu-weddings/
Compiled by Panchali Illankoon