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The heterogeneous form of Indian culture accounts for diverse types of customs and rituals observed in the marriages. Whether it is east, west, south or north but one thing remains universal in all weddings that all the families and friends gather under one roof to celebrate the union of the man and the women in holy matrimony.
Almost all marriages have three stages of ceremonies. The pre-marriage celebrations, the wedding day and the post-wedding ceremonies. Every ceremony being picturesque and characterized by explicit music for every occasion.
The marriage customs and rituals depend satirically on the community one belongs to. But some customs and rituals can be seen almost in every Indian wedding.
General marriage customs and rituals
Mehndi or henna application is a familiar ritual. It is applied on the feet and hands of the bride. It is believed that if henna dries and leaves off with a dark color then she will be blessed with the love of her mother-in-law. Else she should be prepared for an antagonistic behavior by her mother-in-law. Bride’s friends see this as a good opportunity to tease the bride. In some communities even the grooms apply henna designs on their hands and feet.
Garland ceremony is another general ritual. So are the tying of the mangal-sutra around bride’s neck and the kanyadaan in which parents of the bride hand over their daughter to the groom taking the deities as their witness.
The famous liturgy of vadaii of the bride from her home is a sensitive point of time. The ceremony is marked by striking traditional songs.
Peccant side of rituals and customs
An ancient custom in Indian marriages include dowry giving. The dowry was given in old times to the bride by her parents so she may start her new life without being much dependent on anyone. But such customs has been abused and in-laws excruciate the bride and annoy her parents for the greed of dowry.
Marriage is a union between two people and all the marriage customs and rituals are done to bless them and wish them a happy married life. At least this is what is written in the Puranas.
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