With their profound cultural and traditional roots, Marathi weddings skillfully combine meaning and simplicity. These customs provide a significant connection to the past without being unduly complex for contemporary couples juggling hectic lives. Knowing the meaning behind each ritual will help make your wedding more unique and unforgettable, regardless of whether you want a conventional ceremony or a modern twist. These rituals stand for love, harmony, and family; they are more than just symbolic.

Every ritual, from pre-wedding traditions to post-wedding festivities, has a backstory. Here are some popular Marathi wedding customs that have been updated for modern couples who value both authenticity and tradition.

1.Sakharpuda

The formal engagement is marked by this charming pre-wedding custom. A sweet journey begins when the bride receives a sari and sweets (usually sugar, or “sakhar”) from the groom’s family. Nowadays, Sakharpuda is frequently transformed into a private party with close friends and family by couples.

2.Muhurt Karane

Astrologers select a lucky wedding date once the marriage is set. After that, families start getting ready for the wedding, which includes buying and sending out invitations. Modern couples frequently combine this with digital invitations and planning applications, even if it’s still conventional.

3.Halad Chadavane

Both the bride’s and groom’s homes are used for this turmeric ceremony. The couple is coated in a turmeric paste for both aesthetic and protective purposes. These days, couples might incorporate pre-wedding photo shoots, music, and colour themes into their combined haldi.

4.Pujan Simant

With blessings and presents, the bride’s family greets the groom and his family. For convenience, this usually warm and heartfelt event is now combined with the actual wedding day.

5.Mangalashtak and Antarpat

A silk garment known as an antarpat keeps the couple apart during the wedding ceremony. During the ritual, the couple meets one another for the first time while priests recite Mangalashtak mantras, signifying their union. This custom may be kept short but significant in modern weddings.

6.Saptapadi (Seven Steps)

The couple takes seven steps around the sacred fire, each step symbolising vows of love, trust, and companionship. Many modern Marathi couples prefer a simplified version, focusing on vows that resonate personally.

7.Kanyadaan and Lajahoma

Kanyadaan is the emotional ritual where the bride’s parents give her hand to the groom. This is followed by Lajahoma, where the bride offers puffed rice into the fire while praying for a harmonious marriage. Couples often retain these rituals for their deep cultural meaning.

8.Saptapadi and Vivah Homa

The couple walks around the sacred fire, taking vows together. In contemporary ceremonies, priests often explain each vow in simple language, making the moment more relatable for modern couples and guests.

9.Rituals Following Marriage

The bride makes her first appearance at her new house on Grihapravesh. Additionally, some couples decide to incorporate enjoyable games and welcome customs. These might be imaginatively transformed into brunch parties or intimate home events.

Marathi wedding customs are a celebration of love, family, and tradition rather than just a formality. Combining these ancient traditions with current ideals gives modern couples a special, meaningful wedding experience. Couples can preserve what seems right, modify what feels appropriate, and celebrate in a way that respects tradition and uniqueness by knowing the meaning behind each rite.

These customs offer a timeless basis for a memorable beginning to married life, regardless of whether you opt for a lavish celebration or a simple ceremony. Accept them as a means of honouring your heritage while boldly entering a future together.