One of the chief highlights of an Indian wedding, before the actual marriage ceremony, is the ritual of Sagai or Kurmai. This ceremony marks the official ‘asking’ of the bride’s hand by the bridegroom’s family. Rings are exchanged between the bride and the bridegroom during Sagai to seal the union of the two individuals as well as their families.

Mehndi (Hindi: मेहंदी, Urdu: مہندی) is the art of painting hands or feet, or the body, with a paste made of dried henna leaves. A spot of bright red to dark brown was created but this color is prone to discoloration with the time and strength and quality of the paste you make. The oils can be added to help the rich shade, but are not necessary.

The Haldi ceremony is a ritual holy bath also known as pithi ceremony, which is one of the pre-wedding ceremonies in India. Turmeric (haldi), oil and water are applied to both the bride and groom by married women on the morning of the wedding. The mixture is believed to bless the couple before the wedding.

Sangeet, which literally translates to “music”, is an event held a few days before the wedding and is filled with dance, music, and vibrant colors. In the olden days, women of all ages gathered around and took turns singing songs and dancing.

As a wedding procession, traditionally the baraat starts at the groom’s house (or at the groom’s side) on the wedding day. Despite having no religious significance, it is a traditional ritual and one of the most enjoying traditions.

The Varmala Ceremony, also referred to as Jaimala, is the commencement of the Hindu wedding, serving as the first time the Bride and Groom meet before starting the wedding ceremony. Mala is the Hindi word for garland, usually consisting of flowers bunched together on a string.

In a Hindu marriage ceremony, the Pheras are the seven sacred rounds that the bride and groom take around the holy fire. Each round stands for a vow and we are here to tell you the meaning and significance of Saat Phere for a millennial couple.

Reception ceremony is celebrated just after the main wedding day. It is the first public appearance of the newly wed couple after their marriage. The reception is usually organized by the family of the groom and is a sort of a grand party.