Maharashtra is a state located in western India and is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. One of the most important events in the life of a Maharashtrian is their wedding. Weddings in Maharashtra are elaborate affairs that are steeped in tradition and culture, and the ceremonies are spread out over several days. In this essay, we will explore the various customs and traditions associated with a typical Maharashtrian wedding.
Pre-Wedding Rituals:
The wedding preparations start weeks before the actual wedding day. The first pre-wedding ritual is the "Sakhar Puda" ceremony, which is the engagement ceremony. During this ceremony, the groom's family visits the bride's house and presents her with a saree and a packet of sugar as a symbol of the sweetness that they will share in their life together. The bride's family reciprocates by presenting the groom with a "Shervani" or a traditional Maharashtrian outfit.
The next ritual is the "Haldi" ceremony, where a paste of turmeric and sandalwood is applied to the bride and groom's body to purify and cleanse them before their wedding. This ceremony is usually held separately at the bride's and groom's homes.
The "Mehendi" ceremony is another important pre-wedding ritual. This ceremony is held a day before the wedding, and the bride and her female relatives get intricate henna designs on their hands and feet.
Wedding Day:
The actual wedding day is filled with several customs and rituals. The groom's wedding procession is known as the "Baraat," and it is a grand affair. The groom's family and friends dress in traditional Maharashtrian attire and dance to the beat of the dhol as they make their way to the bride's house.
Once the Baraat arrives at the bride's house, the "Varat" ceremony takes place, where the groom is welcomed by the bride's family. The bride's mother performs an aarti and applies a "Tilak" on the groom's forehead, and the groom presents the bride with a "Mangalsutra" or a sacred necklace that symbolizes their union.
The next ritual is the "Kanyadaan" ceremony, where the bride's father gives away his daughter to the groom. This ceremony is considered to be one of the most emotional moments of the wedding.
The "Saptapadi" or the seven vows are the most important part of the wedding ceremony. The bride and groom hold hands and take seven steps around the sacred fire, and with each step, they take a vow to love and cherish each other for the rest of their lives.
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Post-Wedding Rituals:
The "Griha Pravesh" ceremony is performed when the newlywed couple enters the groom's house for the first time. The groom's mother performs an aarti and welcomes the couple into the house.
The "Reception" is the final event of the wedding celebrations, where the couple is officially introduced to the groom's relatives and friends. The reception is usually a grand affair, with music, dance, and sumptuous food.
Conclusion:
Maharashtra weddings are a beautiful amalgamation of culture, traditions, and rituals. The pre-wedding ceremonies, the wedding day rituals, and the post-wedding celebrations are all steeped in tradition and are meant to bring the families closer.
-Team BrainFryy
Image courtesy of the [Google]
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