| Ganesh Puja: This Puja (prayer) is offered the morning of the wedding to Lord Ganesh, the deity of peace and remover of all obstacles on the road to harmony and tranquility. Grah Shanti: Also performed in the morning of the wedding, it is done so to conciliate the deities of the nine planets. By following certain rituals, they infuse courage, peace of mind and inner strength to endure life's sufferings. Hasta Melap: By placing the bride's hand in the groom's hand, the bride's parents give away the daughter to the groom.. Kanyadan: The bride is presented to the groom by her parents. The groom's parents provide the same offering. Both are blessed by the parents and wished a happy and prosperous union. Mangal Astak : Garlands are exchanged by the bride and groom. This symbolizes the spirit of complete cooperation with which they embark upon their married life. Mangal Sutra: The groom Places the Mangal Sutra (the sacred necklace), on the bride's neck thereby inaugurating the Hindu Marriage. The Mangal Sutra represents the couple's togetherness love and sacred union. Agni Puja: Prayers are recited to Agni (fire) which is one of the five elements and manifestations of God. Ghee (clarified butter), rice, etc. are jointly offered to the fire to signify the spirit of sacrifice and equal partnership in all enterprises throughout their lives. Prayers are offered for long life, health and prosperity. Mangal Fera: The couple hold each others hands and walk around the agni four times while the maharaj chants mantras. � 1st round: Dharma (righteousness-moral values-duties) � 2nd round: Artha (Prosperity-material possessions) � 3rd round: Kama (Happiness in Family-desire to enjoy) � 4th round: Moksha (Spiritual-toward the path of God) Sapta Padi: The sapta padi (seven steps) set the holy seal to the mutual contract of marriage. Seven forward steps are taken to symbolize the seven requirements for a happy married life which they will make together. � One--a step toward procurement of food and nourishment � Two--a step toward health in all seasons � Three--a step toward education, culture and virtues � Four--a step toward energy and strength � Five--a step toward life long happiness and friendship � Six--a step toward a happy and united family � Seven--a step toward happiness born out of wisdom Sindhur Dan: The groom places sindhur (red powder) on the bride's forehead. The sindhur is indicative of a blood union as well as the unmistakable mark of a Hindu married woman. Ashirvaad: The newlyweds will seek the blessings of their parents, elderly relatives and other family members for a happy marriage and a long life. |
 |
 |
| ~*~The Significance of a Hindu Wedding ~*~ |
 |
|
 |
|
|
|