A Guide to Hindu Wedding Sacred Vows
Aamli Ghot
A pre-wedding ceremony between the Bride and Mother of the Bride, where the Bride bites the stems of 5 mango leaves, symbolizing her voluntary consent to marriage. This ceremony is a moment of transition, marking the passage of her daughter from one phase of life to another.
Baraat
The Groom’s grand arrival, welcomed by the bride’s family in a festive procession.
Milaap
The meeting of the Father of the Bride and the Father of the Groom on this special day symbolizes the approval of the marriage of their children.
Dwaar Pooja
A special pooja to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is done before the Groom enters the Mandap (Alter).
Parchhan
The Groom is welcomed by the Bride’s mother and her family members with a light symbolizing the auspiciousness of the day.
Var Pooja
Being that the Groom represents Lord Vishnu for the day and the Bride represents the Goddess Lakshmi, the Bride’s father symbolically adores the Groom as he enters the Mandap with a small ceremony.
Kanya Daan
This is a very special moment for the Bride, as she accepts her change of status from an unmarried woman to a wife. The Father of the Bride gives away (“daan”) his daughter (“kanya”) to the Groom, who affirms his commitment to the marriage.
Taagpaat
After the Bride enters the Mandap, a thread is put around the neck of the Bride by the Groom’s brother signifying protection of his sister-in-law in the event of the Groom’s absence after marriage.
Gat Bandhan
The priest ties the knot to bind the Bride and Groom together for life. Throughout the ceremony, oblations are made to God to invoke his blessings in the form of “Havan” (ceremonial fire).
Bhawaar
The couple circles the sacred fire seven times. The. Bride leads 4 times and Groom leads 3 times. This symbolizes the achievement of the 4 goals of human life and peace in all 3 levels of existence.
Sapta Padi - The Seven Steps
During Sapta Padi, the Bride and Groom take seven symbolic steps vowing: 1. Prosperity 2. Strength 3. Wealth 4. Happiness 5. Progeny 6. Nature’s Bounty 7. Companionship
Sila Rohan
Bride's brother gives her "Kheel" (purified rice) and she offers it to God. The brother then assists the Bride to step upon a rock, which symbolizes her strength and dedication as she enters married life.
Saat Vachan
Bride makes 7 requests of the Groom before the marriage is complete.
Jaya Maala
The couple exchanges garlands, symbolizing the divine love for each other.
Sendur Daan
Groom places sindoor (red powder), the traditional mark of a married woman.
Exchange of Rings & Blessings
Rings are exchanged, and the couple receives blessings from family and loved ones.
