Maharashtrian Wedding Rituals

Such sacred ways of nuptial knot are performed with a lot of gaiety and enthusiasm. They are performed in proper traditional way under the guidance of a respected priest. Hence, the customs comprise of the typical Hindu ones. Each stage during the occasion has some vital significance and it is more of a homely affair than a boisterous show. Unlike the other traditions in India, the rites are carried out in day time, mostly in the afternoon. It is rather the event that is celebrated in simplest way, which is less lavish than the others in the country.

Traditionally, the auspicious occasion starts with a hunt for a proper match and matching a 'kundalis'. After the match, the families start the preparations. There are various elements comprising nuptial traditions in the region before the D-Day. "Sakhar Puda", that is the engagement ceremony is carried out at the bride's home. The families present packets of sugar to each other as the token that the match is accepted by both the parties. Then "Kelvan" is carried out where both the families feast together. The "Haldi" ceremony consists of the bath of bride and groom. Both of them are applied with Turmeric and Sandalwood paste. The bride's parents carry out "Seemant Puja", where the groom is given gifts by bride's parents.

The main customs on the event's day is also full of subsections. These are inclusive of the Antarpaat, Sankalpa, Kanyadan and Mangalsutra Bandhan. In antarpaat, a holy cloth is held between the bride and groom, where both of them can't see each other. In Sankalpa, the couple takes permission to get married. In Kanyadan, the parents of the bride give away their daughter's hand to the groom. While in Mangalsutra Bandhan, the groom ties a necklace weaved in black and golden strings around the bride's neck. Now she is a married woman and continues to wear the necklace for lifetime. The end comes with Vivah Home, Saptapadi and Karmasamapti. In Saptapadi, the newly wedded couple makes seven rounds around the holy fire. They make seven vows in this ceremony.

The customs in this major tradition in India are simple and fun. They have many subsections. After the event, feast and reception parties are also organized. During these grand occasions, all the family members and friends eat together with the newly weds.