Wedding Day Festivities

Penn Azhaippu- Kanya Aagaman The Arrival of the Bride

8:00 am

IST: 5:30pm

Sitara will be escorted into the marriage venue, by her brothers and maternal uncles who will hold a canopy of flowers over her head as she walks down the aisle. It signifies that the bride has been raised with lots of love and care.

Oonjal - The Swing Ceremony

8:30 am

IST: 6:00pm

Oonjal is a swing that is beautifully decorated with flowers and ornaments for Sitara and Mithun. It is then gently rocked back and forth; this motion is a message to the couple that they must stay strong during turbulent times and challenges of life. Relatives and friends sing songs blessing Sitara and Mithun. Then, the couple is fed milk and bananas. The women of both families throw colored rice in four directions to fend off evil spirits. The ritual also signifies the support of family and friends throughout the couple's life together.

Maalai Maatral - Exchange of Garlands

8:45 am

IST: 6:15pm

In the Hindu tradition, exchanging garlands indicates that the bride has picked the groom to be her husband. This will be another fun event where Sitara and Mithun will try to garland each other with both sides trying to dodge each attempt. In the Shastras (holy scripts) this beautiful ritual symbolizes the unification of the couple as one soul in two bodies.

Ganesh Pooja

9:00 am

IST: 6:30pm

It is believed that worshipping Lord Ganesh before marriage brings prosperity to a couple’s life. Offering prayer leads to a good and happy life that’s full of wisdom and positivity.

Maangalya Dharnam - Tying the Knots

10:30 am - 10:45 am

Maangalya Dharnam is the most significant moment of the wedding. Mithun will tie the Mangalsutra/Thali (turmeric thread) around Sitara's neck. Tying of the thali is done as the relatives and guests shower the newlyweds with turmeric smeared rice.

Sapthapadhi-Saath Pheras - Seven Steps

10:45 am

IST: 8:15pm

The priest ties a scarf between Sitara & Mithun, as they're tied together in mind and soul and take seven steps around the Agni (sacred fire). An Ammi Kal (grinding stone) is kept by the fire. Mithun stops and holds Sitara's toe, placing it on the stone. This symbolizes the rock solid foundation of their union. Mithun will then slip Mettis (silver rings) on Sitara's toes. At the completion of this ritual, the couple is officially declared as husband and wife!

Lunch

11:15 am

IST: 8:45pm

Please join us for a delectable vegetarian fare with an exquisite blend of flavors and textures, celebrating the newlyweds!