FAQs
Question
Dress Code
Answer
Wedding Ceremony: Indian Formal, American Semi-Formal Celebration: Casual Reception: American Semi-Formal, Indian Formal Farewell Brunch: Casual
Question
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Answer
Never been to a celebration like this before? No worries- we've got you! Indian formal wear is colorful, elegant, and fun, but American formalwear is welcome too. Peek at our Pinterest board for inspiration. The ceremony is on grass, so comfy shoes are suggested. Pinterest Board : https://pin.it/6MzKs85BU Women: Lehenga/Saree/Sharara/Salwar Kameez Men: Sherwani, Johpuri, Kurta Pajama Where to shop: -Ladlee (online/Global Mall Atlanta) -Fabindia (online) -Kalki Fashion (online)
Question
FOOD MENU. WHAT WILL BE SERVED?
Answer
Baps Temple: Lunch will be traditional Indian fare. (Vegetarian options only.) Reception: Dinner will include stations with a variety of cuisines. (Non-vegetarian, vegetarian, gluten free).
Question
WILL THERE BE PARKING AT THE VENUE?
Answer
Yes, there is plenty of free parking at BAPS if you plan on driving. There is plenty of free parking at The Foundry Puritan Mill as well. It even has electric charging stations for electric vehicles (boogie-woogie-woogie!)
Question
WEDDING CEREMONY GUIDE
Answer
Baraat: the groom arrives with lively music and dancing. Ganapathi Puje is a ritual performed to seek blessings for a smooth and obstacle-free marriage. The priest invokes Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, to bless the couple and their families. Antarpata: a sacred cloth separates the bride and groom before they see each other for the first time (First Look). Removing the Antarpata signifies two souls becoming one. Jeerige dhaare: After first looks the couple places a mixture of cumin (bitterness) and jaggery (sugar for sweetness) on each other's heads, then exchange floral garlands. Kanya Daana: The bride’s hand is placed into the groom’s signifying that she is now his partner in life. The priest chants as the bride’s hands rest on the groom’s accompanied by the parents of the bride pouring sacred water. Thaali/Mangalya Dharane is a necklace tying ceremony. The Thaali/Mangalsutra is blessed by the family and then the groom ties a necklace around the bride’s neck. After the Thaali is tied, the couple receives blessings from guests through the showering of rice and flower petals. (similar to exchanging wedding bands in western weddings) In Laaja Homa the bride offers puffed rice into the sacred fire, seeking blessings from Lord Agni for a happy/ prosperous marriage. Saptapadi, meaning seven steps, is performed by the bride and groom walking their first seven steps together, symbolizing their commitment to each other. Each step is accompanied by a specific vow or promise, signifying different aspects of their married life. (Nourishment, Strength, Prosperity, Happiness, Health, Loyalty, Love.) The Arundhati Nakshatra: the couple steps out and points towards the sky to look at a pair of stars or nakshatras called Arundhati and Vasistha. These stars represent an ideal union. Ashirwada: After the sacred rituals, the newlywed couple seeks the blessings of their parents, elders, and guests as a gesture of thanks/gratitude for their presence at their union.
