Vivah Yog : Shubh Vivah

The Hindu wedding is a life-defining event for the families who hold it, and an auspicious occasion to become closer to their deities and gain the blessings of their elders. Celebrations often begin with Sanskrit mantras to give blessing and good luck, or are accompanied by traditional dances and rituals. The wedding is a time of celebration, with all family members gathered in one place, sharing happy memories of past events that have made the family so cohesive.

As an added bonus, Hindus believe that these celebrations are important for a healthy marriage. This is because a wedding has to be held on an auspicious day, in a well-planned manner, with the consent of the family. This way, the newlywed will have a good start in married life.

Alankaranam (or Lakshanakriya):

This ritual is done to improve the mental maturity of the bride and groom. It is performed on auspicious occasions like marriage, Upanayanam or just for purposes such as going abroad. It helps ensure a smooth and successful future for both parties and their families..

Pumsavanam:

The groom is sent to the bride’s house by her father, or in his absence, the bride’s brother.

Grihapravesa:

When the groom arrives at the bride’s house (or her parent’s home), he is welcomed by family members and guests. The couple exchange garlands and the boy is deemed a member of that family.

Shagunam (or Vethanam):

Before starting any rituals, the mother of the groom applies turmeric paste on his forehead with betel leaves. She also applies an auspicious mark made up of sindoor and sandalwood paste called Mangalsutra or Thali . Shagunam signifies this auspicious moment.

Samanya (or Dwitiya) Shagunam:

Samanya Shagunam is a special marking of Unnat Shagunam, which signifies that the bride and the groom have the same caste. When this happens, the mother of the bride applies henna on his hands.

Kanya Shagunam or Dhanyashtakam:

It is performed by an elderly member of the bride’s family.

Grahashnaka:

Before Aarthi, it is customary for the elders of each family to perform a puja prior to Aarti, wishing for sons and prosperity in all their affairs..