A short guide to the rituals you'll see across the two wedding days — especially for our friends and family joining from Germany.
Henna artists trace intricate patterns onto the hands and feet of the bride and other guests, using a natural paste that leaves a deep red-brown stain. It's a relaxed, joyful gathering — as much about music and chatter as the art itself. Tradition says the darker the henna, the stronger the love.
An evening of music and dance where both families come together to celebrate. Friends and relatives perform songs and choreographed dances, often gently teasing the couple, before everyone spills onto the floor. It's the warm, high-spirited heart of the pre-wedding festivities.
A blessing ceremony in which a paste of turmeric is dabbed onto the bride and groom by their loved ones. Turmeric is prized for its golden glow and its purifying, auspicious qualities, meant to bless the couple ahead of the wedding. It's playful and a little messy — don't be surprised if some yellow finds its way onto the guests too.
The bride's maternal family slides a set of red-and-white bridal bangles onto her wrists. It's a tender moment of blessing from her mother's side, and the bangles are traditionally worn for a period after the wedding as a mark of a new bride.
Just before the groom sets off, a sehra — a veil of flowers or beads — is tied across his face by his family, along with their blessings. It marks him out as the groom and signals that the procession is ready to begin.
The groom's celebratory procession to the wedding venue, arriving in style amid dhol drums, music and plenty of dancing from his family and friends. It's loud, joyful and impossible to miss — the party quite literally arrives.
The moment the two families formally meet and welcome one another, exchanging garlands and warm greetings. It's a symbolic first embrace between the two sides — two families beginning to become one.
The bride and groom exchange flower garlands, placing them around each other's necks. It's the couple's first ritual together and a public sign of their acceptance of one another — usually met with cheers, laughter and a flurry of cameras.
The heart of the Hindu ceremony: the couple circle a sacred fire together, taking a series of vows with each round. The fire stands as a witness to their promises, and completing the circles marks them as married. It's the still, sacred centre of a joyful day.
Questions are always welcome, and every ritual will be introduced on the day — so there's nothing to memorise. Just relax and enjoy it all.