Pre-Wedding Rituals in Vaishnav

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 Vaishnavism, one of the major branches of Hinduism, has several pre-wedding rituals that are observed by followers. These rituals vary based on regional customs and family traditions, but here are some common pre-wedding rituals in Vaishnavism:


  1. Ganesh Puja: The pre-wedding rituals often begin with a Ganesh Puja, where Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, is invoked and worshipped. This puja is performed to seek his blessings for a smooth and successful wedding ceremony.

  2. Nishchayamatra or Engagement: This ceremony involves the formal announcement and acceptance of the marriage alliance by both families. The bride and groom exchange rings as a symbol of their commitment to each other. Blessings are sought from elders, and sometimes a small puja is performed.

  3. Sankalpa or Vratham: Sankalpa refers to the formal commitment or vow taken by the bride and groom to marry each other. It is a sacred promise made in the presence of family deities and witnesses. The couple usually observe a fast (vratham) on this day as a mark of their dedication.

  4. Haldi Ceremony: The Haldi ceremony is a joyful ritual where a paste made of turmeric, sandalwood, and other auspicious ingredients is applied to the bride and groom's bodies. This is believed to purify and beautify them before the wedding. Family and friends take turns applying the haldi paste, accompanied by singing and dancing.

  5. Mehendi Ceremony: The Mehendi ceremony involves the application of henna designs on the bride's hands and feet. It is a fun-filled event where the bride's close female relatives and friends also apply henna on their hands. Mehendi designs often include intricate patterns and symbols, signifying fertility, love, and auspiciousness.

  6. Sangeet: Sangeet is a musical evening filled with singing and dancing. It is a celebration of the upcoming wedding and involves performances by family members and friends. The atmosphere is lively and joyful, with traditional and modern songs being sung and danced to.

These are some of the common pre-wedding rituals observed in Vaishnavism. However, it's important to note that practices may vary among different communities and regions.

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