15/06/2020
HALDI CEREMONY
The haldi ceremony marks the beginning of the wedding rituals and is one of the most important pre wedding rituals after Tilak. The ceremony is held on the morning of the wedding day at the residence of both groom and bride respectively. A paste prepared with turmeric (haldi), curd, sandalwood, gram flour primarily, is rubbed onto the bride’s and groom’s skin before a ceremonial bath.
But do you know why the beautiful ritual is very significant in Indian weddings? Here’s why.
1. AUSPICIOUS
Turmeric is considered extremely auspicious for Hindu rituals. There’s a role for turmeric in every ritual as it signifies purity, fertility and good health.
2. DIVINE GLOW
Turmeric is extremely good for the skin. It gives the skin a healthy glow and ensures the bride and the groom look fresh during the most important occasion of their lives. The beautification property of haldi makes the haldi ceremony an important ritual in Indian weddings.
3. RELAXES THE MIND
Massaging the ubtan onto the skin relaxes the body and takes the mind off the tension. It also has an antioxidant called curcumin that acts as a mild counter to depression and anxiety which helps the bride and the groom stay calm for the wedding.
4. PURIFIES THE BODY AND SOUL
Turmeric is considered a cleanser and a purifier both literally and symbolically. As the bride and the groom take a step towards the new beginning, the haldi ceremony is a purifying ritual.
5. PEACE AND PROSPERITY
The colour yellow is indeed associated with new beginnings, peace and happiness. It is considered an auspicious colour after the colour red in Indian culture. In the ceremony, the bride and groom are made to wear yellow clothes to invite peace and prosperity in their married life.
6. BLESSINGS
The ritual is meant to prepare the bride and groom for the wedding. The ceremony ends with the elders blessing the bride and the groom as they prepare themselves for the new beginning. It is also meant to help them relax.
The occasion is an intimate affair celebrated during the day, with only close family members and friends taking part in the ritual.