Marathi weddings, rooted in strong Maharashtrian traditions, are characterized by simplicity, grace, and deep cultural heritage. Unlike flamboyant North Indian weddings, Marathi weddings have greater emphasis on rituals and family values. They are a synthesis of spiritual customs with merrymaking, thus becoming an unforgettable experience for the bride, groom, and their families.
Pre-Wedding Rituals in a Marathi Wedding
Marathi weddings start with different pre-wedding rituals that signify the marriage of two families and blessings from elders and gods.
1. Sakhar Puda (Engagement Ceremony)
The wedding celebrations begin with Sakhar Puda, the engagement ceremony. The family of the bride presents the bridegroom with a saree and sugar (sakhar) as a gift, indicating that their relationship was a sweet start. Likewise, the bride presents the bridegroom with garments and sweets as a gift. This is a public declaration of the wedding.
2. Muhurat Karane
After the engagement is completed, the families meet an astrologer or priest to choose a favorable date (muhurat) for the wedding. Once the date is decided, wedding preparations are initiated.
3. Kelvan
Kelvan is a small party conducted independently by both the bride’s and groom’s families. The immediate family members invite the groom and bride to have a meal and bless and present them with gifts. The ceremony reinforces bonding among family members prior to the wedding day.
4. Halad Chadavane (Haldi Ceremony)
This is a festive pre-wedding ritual in which turmeric (halad) paste is smeared on the bride and groom individually in their own homes. The haldi is said to cleanse the body and impart a natural radiance to the complexion prior to the wedding. Haldi is put on by immediate family members while they sing traditional Marathi wedding songs.
5. Seemant Pujan
One day prior to the wedding, the groom’s family comes to the bride’s residence. The bride’s parents conduct a puja and greet the groom’s family with presents, indicative of their regard and affection for their future son-in-law.
Principal Wedding Rituals
1. Ganpati Puja
Every Marathi wedding begins with Ganpati Puja, seeking Lord Ganesha’s blessings for a smooth and auspicious ceremony. The bride and groom, along with their families, pray for happiness and prosperity in their married life.
2. Punyahavachan
This is a purification ritual performed by the family priest. The elders of the family bless the couple and pray for their prosperous future.
3. Antarpat
One of the most symbolic rituals in a Marathi wedding, Antarpat is where a cloth is put between the bride and groom so that they do not see one another. The priest recites mangalashtak (sacred wedding mantras), and after the recitation is over, the cloth is taken away, and the couple lays eyes on one another for the first time in the wedding ceremony.
4. Kanyadaan
Kanyadaan is an emotional and powerful ceremony in which the bridegroom is blessed with the hands of the bride by her father. The groom is entrusted the task of serving and protecting the daughter of the father for all his life.
5. Saptapadi (Seven Sacred Steps)
The couple takes seven steps around the sacred fire (agni), making seven vows that symbolize their commitment to each other. These vows cover various aspects of married life, including trust, respect, love, and companionship.
6. Mangalsutra Bandhan & Sindoor Daan
The groom fastens the mangalsutra (a beaded black and gold necklace) around the bride’s neck, representing their union. He then puts sindoor (vermillion) on the bride’s forehead, marking her as a married woman.
7. Laxmi Narayan Puja
The bridegroom and bride are prayed to as Lord Vishnu (Narayan) and Goddess Lakshmi, representing prosperity and divine blessings for the union.
Post-Wedding Rituals
1. Karmasampati
Following the wedding ceremony, the priest conducts a final puja, blessing the couple for the future. The couple then obtains blessings from elders and relatives.
2. Grihapravesh
After the marriage, the bride comes to her new house (sasural). The mother of the groom does an aarti and welcomes her with traditional customs. She is invited to enter by pushing a vessel of rice with her right foot, which means prosperity and happiness entering the family.
3. Reception
The wedding festivities end with a grand reception where the bride and groom greet and meet family and friends. It is a festive event with music, dance, and a sumptuous feast.
Attire and Food in a Marathi Wedding
Bride’s Attire
The Marathi bride has a Paithani saree on as her traditional wedding attire—a lovely silk saree with elaborate zari work. She wears classic gold ornaments in the form of nath (nose ring), mohan mala (gold necklace), and green bangles, which are symbols of prosperity.
Groom’s Attire
The groom dresses in a simple yet classy white or cream dhoti and kurta with a pheta (turban). He has a mundavalya (a pearl-studded headband) wrapped across his forehead.
Traditional Food
Marathi wedding feasts are a delightful blend of vegetarian delicacies. Some popular dishes include:
Puran Poli (sweet stuffed flatbread)
Bharli Vangi (stuffed eggplant)
Ukdiche Modak (steamed sweet dumplings)
Masale Bhat (spicy rice dish)
Shrikhand (sweet yogurt dessert)
Conclusion
Marathi weddings perfectly blend tradition, simplicity, and happiness. Every ritual holds deep meaning, bonding two families together. Whether it is the holy vows of Saptapadi, the sentimental Kanyadaan, or the energetic Haldi ceremony, every aspect of a Marathi wedding
