Whats up with the rituals?
While the ceremony involves multiple actions, each one symbolizes the foundations of a loving marriage...
1. Varmaala (garland exchange)
Pooja arrives at the mandap accompanied by her family . Pooja & Arjun are separated by the Holy Curtain. After the recital of hymns blessing the couple, the Curtain is removed and the bride and the groom exchange garlands at the auspicious time of 11:10am. This symbolizes their marriage.
2. Hastamilaap
Symbolizes both parents handing over responsibility of Bride and groom to each other. Deepak, the bride's brother will put Arjuns hands in Poojas- Padma will pour water through a deep pot that that will drain through Arjun and Pooja’s fingers. Arjuns parents will then do the same.
3. Kankan-Bandhan
The karavalis assists the priestess by placing a hand-woven cotton string around Pooja and Arjun, symbolizing the merging of their souls together. The threads are subsequently removed and turned into smaller bands. Pooja & Arjun tie these bands on each other’s wrists.
4. Maangalya Dhaaranam
Arjun ties the sacred mangalsutra around Pooja’s neck & applies sindoor to her forehead. Geeta, Arjun's sister puts a toe ring on Pooja's toe. Pooja then puts the wedding band on Arjuns finger.
5. Gaanth Bandhan (marriage knot)
Arjun’s sister ties a secure knot using Arjun & Pooja’s scarves to symbolize their eternal bond. This knot also signifies that both Arjun and Pooja's families accept each other as their new family member.
6. Vivah Hoam (worshipping sacred fire)
The priestess invokes Holy Fire (agni), and Pooja & Arjun offer molten butter (ahuti) to the fire. Arjun holds Pooja's hand (panigrahan) and together they walk around the fire seven times. Pooja's brothers and cousins assists the priestess.
7. Saptapadi (taking Seven Steps together)
First step, for sustenance,
Second step, for strength to face the adversities of life,
Third step, for prosperity,
Fourth step, for contentment at all times,
Fifth step, for healthy children,
Sixth step, for perpetual happiness, and
Seventh step, for long lasting love.
8. Shanti Mantra
The priestess recites prayers (mantras) to bring peace (shanti) and happiness to those in attendance.
9. Ashirvaad (blessings)
The Newlyweds obtain blessings from their elders for a long life of togetherness.
10. Grand Exit
The official send off as Husband & Wife!