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Let’s explore the post-wedding rituals of India and understand the meaning behind these timeless traditions.
Post-wedding rituals like vidaai mark the beginning of a new chapter for the newlyweds. (Stock Photo)
Indian weddings feature a symphony of colours, emotions and traditions. The wedding rituals passed down through generations, hold immense cultural and religious significance. Each wedding ceremony is a unique testament to the community’s deep-rooted customs.
Here, the celebrations often extend well beyond the main wedding ceremony. Following the event, several post-wedding rituals take place, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the newlyweds.
From the Vidaai ceremony, where the bride bids farewell to her family, to the reception which welcomes her to the groom’s community, these rituals ensure that the wedding remains memorable for the couple and both sides of the family get comfortable with each other.
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Let’s explore the post-wedding rituals of India and understand the meaning behind these timeless traditions:
Vidaai
Following the wedding comes the Vidaai ceremony. It is an emotional farewell that marks the bride’s departure from her parental home. In this bittersweet ritual, the bride bids goodbye to her family and leaves with her husband.
As the bride leaves her parent’s house to embark on a new journey with her spouse, she throws back a handful of rice over her head in the direction of her house. This symbolises her wish for her parents’ happiness and prosperity and her gratitude for their love and upbringing.
Grihapravesh
Upon arriving at the groom’s home, the Griha Pravesh ceremony is performed. Before entering the house, the bride is supposed to knock over a pot filled with rice with her right foot, signifying abundance and prosperity. This custom is followed by a ceremonial aarti to mark the bride’s integration into her new family and the beginning of her marital life.
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Reception
The wedding reception is a celebratory event hosted by the groom’s side to welcome the bride into her new home. In this ceremony, the family introduces the bride to the groom’s community, honouring the couple.
The ceremony includes decorations, delicious food, music, and dance. It’s a festive event that also allows both sides of the family and their guests to congratulate the newlyweds and provide them with blessings and affection. Unlike other traditional ceremonies, the reception is less ritualistic and offers an opportunity for the couple to interact with friends and relatives in a more relaxed and joyous setting.