Rajasthani Wedding Traditions: Guide To Marwari Wedding Rituals

Pre-Wedding Rituals:

• Ganpati Sthapana: The wedding preparations begin with the Ganpati Sthapana, where Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is invoked and worshipped. It is believed to bring good luck and blessings for the wedding festivities.
• Pithi Dastoor: In this ritual, a paste made of turmeric, sandalwood, and other auspicious ingredients is applied to the bride and groom’s bodies. It is believed to cleanse and purify them before their wedding day.
• Mehndi: The Mehndi ceremony is a joyous occasion where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet. It is accompanied by singing, dancing, and traditional Rajasthani folk music.
• Sangeet: The Sangeet ceremony is a musical extravaganza filled with Rajasthani folk songs, dance performances, and enthusiastic celebrations. It brings together family members and friends to sing, dance, and rejoice in the union of the couple.

Wedding Attire:

Rajasthani weddings are known for their opulent and colorful attire. The bride typically wears a traditional lehenga choli, which is a long skirt, blouse, and dupatta (scarf) ensemble. The outfit is intricately embroidered with zari (golden thread), mirror work, and colorful embellishments. The groom wears a regal ensemble called the sherwani, paired with a turban and traditional accessories.

Baraat:

The Baraat is the groom’s grand procession to the wedding venue. The groom arrives on a decorated horse or elephant, accompanied by his family members and friends dancing to the beats of traditional Rajasthani music. The procession is a spectacle of joy and celebration, as the groom’s side makes a grand entrance to the wedding venue.

Wedding Customs:

• Toran and Aarti: As the groom arrives at the wedding venue, he is welcomed by the bride’s mother with an aarti (traditional ritual with a lamp) and a Toran (decorative gateway). It symbolizes the bride’s family’s acceptance of the groom into their home.
• Jaimala: The Jaimala ceremony involves the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom. It signifies their acceptance of each other and the beginning of their journey as a married couple.
• Pheras: The wedding ceremony includes the Saptapadi, where the couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire, representing their seven vows and promises to each other. The pheras are conducted amidst mantras chanted by the priest, and the couple seeks blessings from the elders.
• Bidaai: The Bidaai ceremony marks the bride’s departure from her parental home to start a new life with her husband. It is an emotional moment where the bride’s family blesses her and bids her farewell with tears and mixed emotions.

Post-Wedding Customs:

• Griha Pravesh: When the couple arrives at the groom’s home, the Griha Pravesh ceremony takes place. The bride enters her new home by knocking over a vessel filled with rice with her right foot, symbolizing prosperity and a warm welcome.
• Reception: A grand reception is often organized to celebrate the couple’s marriage. It is an opportunity for family and friends to congratulate the newlyweds, enjoy lavish feasts, and participate in cultural performances.