A Hindu wedding is a beautiful celebration of love, commitment, and family. It’s also an important rite of passage in the Hindu religion, with many traditions that have stood the test of time. Here are some things you should know about Hindu weddings before walking down the aisle.
What is the meaning of a Hindu wedding?
According to Hindu beliefs, marriage is supposed to last for seven lifetimes. In Hinduism, marriage is a big deal because it marks the beginning of a new phase in your life, the ‘Garhasthyaashram.’
Hindus attach much importance to marriage, considering it one of a man’s most important duties. Through marriage, he fulfills his duty to continue his family’s lineage.
Hindu weddings are full of many rituals, which may take days to perform. There are many customs and practices in a Hindu wedding ceremony, each with its own meaning.
How far in advance do Hindus plan their weddings?
If you are a Hindu getting married or part of a Hindu wedding party, it’s important to understand the required commitment. Start planning at least six months to avoid disappointment and ensure that your Hindu wedding is everything you want it to be. This will allow you to handle details such as selecting a venue, logistics, entertainment, catering, transportation, and decorations.
What should you wear to a Hindu wedding?
When dressing for an Indian wedding, bold colors are common. The guests who’ll be there will be wearing vibrant colors and eye-catching jewelry.
For men, a suit is usually considered appropriate attire. If you want to wear traditional clothing, there are many options available. The kurta and the sherwani are two traditional outfits worn by Indian men. Bright colors are encouraged, but choosing one you’re most comfortable in is the most important thing.
How long does a traditional Hindu wedding last?
Many Indian weddings last for three days, but some can last up to five. The first day of a traditional Indian wedding is the Ganesh Puja, i.e., the Mandap Muhurat and Pithi. It is often followed by a festive Mendhi night/Sangeet night. The second day is Grah Shanti, also called Sathak/Mandvo or Mamoru ceremony. The third day is the wedding celebration, and an evening reception will follow.
On the first day of the wedding, a priest usually performs the Ganesh Puja; a private ceremony attended only by the couple, the bridal party, and immediate family. The Ganesh Puja is the beginning of the rest of your wedding rituals. The family will pray to Lord Ganesh before the ceremony, asking for peace and harmony. Lord Ganesh’s blessings are sought to mark the start of a marriage with good fortune.
The first or second day of a wedding celebration often includes the mehndi ceremony. During this ceremony, the bride and her close friends and family will have intricate designs drawn with henna on their hands and feet. The sangeet is held that evening. At a wedding, guests usually have a chance to meet the bride and groom’s families, eat a meal, and dance or watch other performers. On the third day, a reception with a cocktail hour is held.
What Will the Guest List Look Like?
Hindu weddings are significant events for couples, their families, and friends. They are always elaborate, never small or intimate, keeping with the Hindu belief that every ceremony should be a spectacle of joy and celebration. Hindu ceremonies are elaborate and lengthy, and it is not uncommon for a Hindu wedding to last all day or even two days!
The bride’s family and friends are invited to the wedding, as well as the groom’s and his attendants’ families. The couple’s wedding, like most weddings, is a big party, and it makes sense to invite many guests. What better way to celebrate a new life together than with a party?
How will the food be?
Some people think that all Indian food is spicy and vegetarian, but there are plenty of non-spicy dishes. The reception will offer a variety of food during the day and evening. However, there are some slight differences in the menu depending on the time of the day. For example, naan is not served during the day but is available in the evening at dinner, and Puri or bathura is served during lunch instead.
If there’s a religious ceremony in the morning, there won’t be any meat; but at the evening reception, you can choose from vegetarian or non-vegetarian dishes. Again, this depends on the families involved in the ceremony.
The food may include:
- Vegetarian curries.
- Rice and dhal.
- Puris or puffs.
- Savory samosas with chutney and pickles.
- Sweet Shrikhand Gulba Jamun.
Like any wedding menu, there will be a wide array of appetizers. Alongside this will be the main dish, which is typically made up of paneer, creamy curries, tandoori meat—cooked in a traditional clay oven called a tandoor—and buttery naans. Typical dessert tables include cake, Indian ice cream, and nut-based sweets.
What to Expect at the Reception
After the ceremony, it’s time for the wedding reception. This is a festive occasion with lots of dancing and celebrating! Speeches are made, and loved ones sing and dance for the couple.
After the ceremony, there will be a formal reception with dinner and a dance party. Come dressed in your most festive attire because you’ll be dancing all night!
A Hindu marriage ceremony is a beautiful and auspicious occasion in which two families come together and bless the union of two individuals. It is a ceremony of great significance for the bride, groom, and entire family. Many aspects play an essential role in ensuring that this special moment is a beautiful one for everyone involved. We hope this guide has been able to help with all the details so that you can begin your happily ever after.
