AN INDIAN WEDDING - 2

Jayamala, the exchange of garlands between Groom and the Bride signifies a willing acceptance of the other as a partner for life. Their families, friends stand in testimony, and approval of the event and bring their own joys and spice to the occasion.













Kanyadaan, is a crucial component to wedding rituals popular in many regions of the land. Kanyadaan literally means 'giving away of bride/daughter'. The acceptance of the bride by her groom is seen as completed by his holding her hands. Bride here is being given away by her grand father (acting as her father's substitute).

AN INDIAN WEDDING

The Dulha (Bridegroom) is set to depart for the bridal house. Dressed in his best fineries, a decorative Mowr (head-dress worn as a crown) atop his head, a sequence of rituals have been performed at his parents' home. Women of the household, relations and neighbours participate actively.















An emotional moment here as the groom seeks
his father's blessings before his ceremonial
departure at the head of the wedding party (baraat). Fathers accompany the party mostly or depute a trusted family senior to officiate at rituals. Wedding rituals across India vary greatly but many traditions are common to all. 

AN INDIAN WEDDING.

Jayamala, the garlanding by the Bride and Groom of each other,  is a social declaration by the two parties that they marry each other of their own volition.  the Bride's sister acting here as Bridesmaids are witnesses to the ceremony. 

A wedding in the family - 2009

Sapna got married to Gunjan in 2009. The small and very traditional wedding featured the essentials - a marwa (where rituals are conducted), the purohit (on the right), and the bridesmaid ( on the left).Till the last reports came in, the groom (not in the pic.) and the bride are very happily married !