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When it comes to their elaborative and distinct ceremonies, Kashmiri wedding rituals can rightly be called as unique and matchless.
These rituals reflect the sentiments and the enthusiasm of the people for the institute of marriage. Kashmiri wedding rituals are classified into pre-wedding functions, the wedding day and the post wedding rituals.
Let’s have a word on these traditions
Kasamdry
Also called as the formal engagement, the ritual observes exchanging of rings in front of an idol on a date fixed by the priest. It may even take place at groom’s place. In earlier days, ceremony was performed in the temples and big feast was given from the bride’s side. The parents of the bride used to send gifts in the form of cash, jewelry, clothing, fruits and sweets to the grooms house. Eldest aunt in both the families prepare var (rice pudding).
Livun
It takes about a week before the wedding.
Waza, family cook, arrives and sets up a mud-brick oven where traditional Kashmiri meals are prepared.
Wanwun
It’s like Sangeet. Guests are given noon or salted pink tea.
Maanzirat
It’s a combination of three ceremonies. A traditional bath of the bride, Mehendi ceremony and the musical sessions of Wanwun are followed.
Duribat
To the grooms side, his maternal uncle gives him new clothing as a Shagun for the marriage. Maternal relatives are invited at respective houses for a vegetarian meal.
Food
On the wedding day, a big feast awaits the guests comprising of at least 21 vegetarian dishes. These also include kangach, an expensive dish and madhur pulao (sweetened rice with nuts)
Posh Puja
Considering the couple to be as Shiva and Parvati, this Puja is performed by covering their heads with a red cloth.
Satraat
Postwedding Kashmiri wedding rituals start with Satraat which is visiting of the bride and groom to her paternal home.
Phirlath
The second visit of the couple is called Phirlath.
Roth khabar
Choosing a date between Tuesday and Saturday the bride’s parents send a big cake of nuts to groom’s house.
Ghar atchun
It’s just like a modern day reception differing in the fact that it is given by bride’s parents.
Once the marriage is performed, the bride wears an ataharu and dejaharu as a symbol epitomizing her to be married women.
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