The Importance of Rituals in a Bengali Wedding

Bengali wedding is a harvest-colored of tradition with pomp and spirits, each step associated with cultural ethos. These traditions are not only enjoyable ceremonies of two people coming together as one but also act as ways to bring families together and remind people of traditions of their ancestors.

Aiburobhat:

Aiburobhat is a pre-wedding dinner party that is held just before the wedding ceremony and reception, to happily show the favorite foods of the bride and the groom as prepared by the their families. For them, it symbolizes the phase of no responsibilities ahead and marks the start of life’s next chapter.

Gaye Holud:

The function called Gaye Holud implies putting the turmeric paste on the bride and groom. It’s a way of cleansing and sanctifying the couple’s face to make the skin glow in anticipation of the new happy healthy life ahead.

Saat Paak:

At the wedding ceremony, the bride gets up on a chair that is carried by her brothers and moving around the groom seven times, the bride conceals her face with betel leaves. This particular rite called Saat Paak symbolizes the entire journey of the couple in their selection process, and their readiness to overcome all hurdles to become man and wife.

Subho Drishti:

Following the Saat Paak though the bride and groom exchanged looks for the first time in the Subho Drishti part of the wedding also known as the final looks part of the wedding. This first look symbolizes the release of tension and confirms the agreement to marry, thus initiating their marital journey.

Sindoor Daan:

As part of the Hindu weddingrite the groom places sindoor (vermilion) on the forehead of the bride to indicate that she is now married. This act is a rather significant one of the devotion and shelter.

Bidaai:

The Bidaai is the actual ritual where the bride bids goodbye to her family and home in highly emotional circumstances. It depicts her transformation from a daughter to a wife, and shows that the ties that binds families are crucial, and new starts are precious.

All movements and actions during a Bengali wedding have context and purpose, promoting harmony and mutual esteem between families. These traditions help culture maintain its roots and also produce some cherished moments; therefore, making the wedding highly memorable occurrence.