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| Hindu Ceremonies | ||
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| Introduction This section covers most aspects of a Hindu wedding, from preparations and traditions to specific details of the wedding ceremonies for nine different branches of Hinduism. Hindus believe in many gods (devas) but only one Supreme Being. They place their trust in the law of karma by which people merit their fate and where they resolve their conflicts and imperfections through reincarnation. They believe in the sanctity of life and practise ahimsa (non-injury) and practise tolerance towards other religions although they believe that only Hinduism offers salvation. Check out our Glossary if there are any words or phrases you do not understand. For inspirational ideas and advice for Eastern weddings visit Confetti East. Legal Requirements The law allows for Hindu temples to be registered for marriage according to its own rites. The legal requirements to be fulfilled are those that apply to civil marriages. If the temple in which you wish to marry is in a different registration district to where you live, you need to prove to the superintendent of that building that you normally worship there or there is no building in your registration district. Failing that, you are required to give notice after having met the residency requirement (speak to the superintendent concerned). A superintendent registrar may also need to attend the ceremony. If the building in which you intend to marry is not registered for the solemnisation of marriages, you must arrange a civil ceremony beforehand for you to be legally married. Divorce and Hinduism Hindus view marriage as a sacrament and this implies that divorce is not permitted. However, there are certain circumstances when it is performed such as cruelty, adultery, venereal disease, desertion for two years, conversion, insanity and similar, irreconcilable problems. What should a Western Guest Expect? Hindu weddings are colourful events with pre-wedding ceremonies lasting for weeks although, due to time constraints, the actual ceremony might only last for two to three hours. If you are invited to a Hindu wedding, find out what type of Hindu celebration to expect. There are regional differences, which is reflected in the ceremonies on offer. If you are invited to any of the other celebrations such as the popular mehendi (henna) night where the bride and some of her relatives and friends are painted with traditional mehendi patterns, join in and enjoy yourself. Whilst you are not expected to know everything, it is a good idea to dress in an inoffensive manner with long dresses or skirts which cover you legs and shirts or a shawl to cover your arms during the wedding ceremony itself. Be prepared and take a scarf or shawl to cover your head and see what the other females are doing. If they cover their heads, do likewise. The food is likely to be vegetarian, although the rice pudding dish (var), which is traditionally served at Kashmiri weddings, can contain lamb. The feasts are sumptuous so be prepared to eat a lot. Cutlery is not always used so follow tradition and eat off banana leaves with your fingers. Alcohol is generally not served at Hindu weddings and you are introduced to exotic drinks such as mathis (salted buttermilk) instead. In some communities, the bride and groom mingle with their guests during the feast after the wedding but the bride's time is often engaged with post-wedding ceremonies. One of the customs enjoyed by the Punjabi bride is similar to the throwing of the bridal bouquet in western weddings. If you are hit by the kalira (bauble) on the bride's bangles, you are probably the next to marry! Ask the bride or groom about presents if this is practical or follow the Hindu way and give gifts of cash. It is also a good idea to ask about taking pictures as not all of the ceremonies can be photographed. Whatever your beliefs, a Hindu wedding is a vibrant, culturally-rich event, so soak up the atmosphere and enjoy your day. Preparations for a Hindu wedding To Hindus, marriage is regarded as a sacrament and the Hindu male needs to get married to enter a vital part of his life: grihasti (the householder). It is his socio-religious duty as it fulfils the three aims of a man's life:
Wedding traditions vary according to each family and custom but the
marriage itself is traditionally arranged by both sets of parents,
although you both have the right to refuse the match if you wish.
Compatibility is important and your horoscopes are often compared
to judge the match. In addition, the time and date of the ceremony
are decided by astrological charts. Continue to typical Hindu ceremonies Back to wedding ceremonies home page
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