The
traditional Hindu wedding customs originated centuries ago from the Rig
Veda, the most ancient Hindu scripture. The ceremony is performed in
Sanskrit, the most ancient surviving language. The ceremony is
solemnized in the presence of God and the five elements of nature: Fire,
Earth, Water, Air, and Light. The Hindu ceremony represents an eternal
bond between the Bride and Groom.
Officiating Priest: Padamnabhan Joshi (Greater Baltimore Temple)
Barat: Bridegroom’s Procession
The Groom, accompanied by relatives and friends, arrives at the Bride’s
doorstep. The Bride’s Mother performs welcome rituals. These rituals
also serve to drive away evil spirits and protect the Groom. The Groom
is escorted to the Lagna Mandap.
Ganesh Puja
Prior to the Bride’s arrival, blessings are invoked from the Lord Ganesh
for the protection of all involved and the removal of all obstacles.
Lord Ganesh is worshipped at all auspicious occasions because he is
deemed to be the most benevolent of all Hindu deities.
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Jai Mala Arpan: Exchange of Garlands
The Bride and Groom welcome each other by exchanging flower garlands.
This gesture symbolizes the unifications of their hearts and the giving
of their consent to marry each other.
Kanyadhan: Presenting the Bride
Panigrahan: Holding of Hands
The father presents the Bride. The father places his hand above the
Groom’s hand and then places the Bride’s hand over his hand. The father
symbolically offers the Bride to the Groom by removing his hand and
leaving the bride’s hand in the Groom’s hand.
Holding each other’s hand, the Bride and Groom accept each other and
exchange marriage vows. This also signifies that they will go hand in
hand throughout their lives.
Granthi Bandhan: Tying the Matrimonial Knot
The Bride and Groom are united by yet another symbolic action of tying
the matrimonial knot and strengthening further the bonds of love and an
everlasting relationship.
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