2. Bride and groom
Highly exotic, intricate
patterns decorating the
bride’s hands and feet
with henna is called
mehandi. It is believed
that the deeper the color
the stronger is her love
for her husband.
3. The groom will wear a
Dhoti, which is an unstitched
garment, and a shirt. On
arrival at the brides house he
will change into another
similar outfit. He will cover
himself with a sheet and wear
the topor (paper mache
headdress).
4. Baarat (Wedding Procession)
Bride and groom arrives for the wedding along
with his family and friends in a procession.
They are then received by the bride's family
and friends.
At the actual wedding ceremony the groom’s
father and all other relatives are present. The
groom’s mother does not attend.
5. Gath Bandhan (Tying of the Nuptial
Knot)
The scarves placed around the bride and groom
are tied together symbolizing their eternal
bond. This signifies their pledge before God to
love each other and remain faithful.
6. Parental Blessing
The parents of the bride and groom give their
blessings to the couple. The couple touches the
feet of their parents as a sign of respect.
7. Satapadi (Seven Steps)
This is the most important rite of the entire ceremony.
• the first step to nourish each other
• the second step to grow together in strength
• the third step to preserve our wealth
• the fourth step to share our joys and sorrows
• the fifth step to care for our children
• the sixth step to be together forever
• the seventh step to remain lifelong friends
8. Questions
• How are exotic, intricate patterns decorating
the bride’s hands and feet with henna called?
• How many times does the brides change her
outfit during the wedding?
• The bride’s mother does not attend the
wedding procession, does she?
• What does it mean when the couple touches the
feet of their parents?
• How many steps does the couple do?
