Marwari weddings

Even a simple wedding in Rajasthan is as elaborate as any big affair.

Before the wedding

1
Sagaai
The engagement. The bride's brother puts tilak on the groom's forehead and gives him a sword, clothes and sweets.
2
Ganapati Sthapna
An idol of Ganapati is installed and a havan performed. All the ceremonies begin only after this.
3
Pithi Dastoor
Turmeric and sandalwood paste is applied to the bride and groom, who stay at home until the wedding.
4
Mehfils
Parties for the women and the men. The traditional ghoomar is danced at the women's mehfil.
5
Janeu
The groom, in saffron robes, wears the sacred thread, then makes a mock run from marriage until his maternal uncle catches him.
6
Palla Dastoor
The groom's family bring the clothes, jewellery and gifts the bride will wear for the wedding.

7
Baan Chadana
Performed at both houses in the morning, to ensure prosperity.
8
Barat
The procession reaches the wedding ground and the bride's mother receives the groom with aarti.
9
Saat Pheras
The seven rounds and the kanyadan take place in the mandap.

Every family does things a little differently, so treat this as a guide rather than a rule. Your elders will have the last word.

We can bring the priests, the musicians, the mehndi and the sweets, wherever you marry.

Next guide

Bengali weddings