Wedding Glossary A-Z

A cloth held between the bride and groom during Hindu ceremonies, symbolizing their separate lives before marriage. It's dramatically lowered during the ceremony.

A Hindu ritual of worship where light from wicks soaked in ghee is offered to deities or to honor the bride and groom.

The groom's wedding procession, traditionally arriving on horseback with family members dancing to dhol music.

The emotional farewell ceremony when the bride leaves her parents' home. She throws rice over her shoulder, symbolizing prosperity for her family.

A decorative dot worn on the forehead, traditionally red for married women. Now worn in various colors as fashion.

A long scarf or dupatta draped over the bride's head, often heavily embroidered or embellished.

A double-headed drum played during the baraat and sangeet, essential for energetic celebrations.

A long scarf that completes Indian outfits like lehengas and salwar kameez, often draped over the head or shoulders.

A prayer to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles, performed at the start of Hindu weddings for blessings.

A ceremony where married women from the family fill an earthen pot with water from a sacred source.

A pre-wedding ceremony where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom for glowing skin and good luck.

The joining of hands between bride and groom, often with their scarves tied together.

Also called Varmala - the exchange of flower garlands between bride and groom, signifying acceptance.

A fun tradition where the bride's sisters steal the groom's shoes and demand payment for their return.

Gold or silver ornamental hangings attached to the bride's bangles, often shaken over unmarried girls.

The giving away of the bride by her father, one of the most emotional moments in Hindu weddings.

A traditional jewelry style from Rajasthan featuring gemstones set in gold, popular for bridal jewelry.

A traditional bridal outfit consisting of a fitted blouse (choli), full skirt, and dupatta. Often heavily embroidered.

The decorated canopy under which Hindu wedding ceremonies take place, often elaborately decorated with flowers.

A sacred necklace tied by the groom around the bride's neck, symbolizing their union. Worn daily by married women.

Intricate henna designs applied to the bride's hands and feet. The depth of color is said to indicate the groom's love.

A ceremony where male members of both families are formally introduced and exchange garlands.

A Hindu priest who officiates the wedding ceremony and guides the couple through rituals.

The seven circles walked around the sacred fire by the bride and groom, each representing a vow.

Uncut diamond jewelry popular for bridal wear, especially in Rajasthani traditions.

An engagement ceremony where both families formally agree to the marriage.

Another name for the seven steps/pheras taken around the sacred fire, each with specific vows.

A musical celebration featuring choreographed dances and performances by family and friends.

A veil of flowers or beads worn by the groom, covering his face during the baraat.

The traditional groom's outfit - a long coat-like garment worn with churidar pants.

Red vermillion powder applied by the groom to the bride's hair parting, marking her as married.

A headpiece worn on the forehead, usually with a single pendant hanging from the center hair parting.

The exchange of flower garlands between bride and groom, symbolizing acceptance and respect.

Alternate spelling of Bidaai - the bride's farewell from her family home.