A TRADITIONAL INDIAN WEDDING

I am going to try to tell you all about Archana and Nitesh's wedding..... (Joe and I work with Archana)  Being part of their wedding and such a wonderful cultural event is a tremendous experience that we will remember forever.....

   Marriage is considered a sacred institution in Hinduism where the couple becomes one in spirit.  A Hindu man does not become his complete self unless he is married and has the support of his wife.
   Hindu weddings are rich in color, tradition, culture and the sweet smell of incense.  It consists of many PUJAs.  There is prayer, drum beating, horn blowing, bell ringing and the chanting of Vedas.
   Archana and Nitesh were separated in their own homes until the day of the wedding.  The SHAGUN KI MENDi celebration was performed in the evening of the second day.  Henna, from the groom's family was applied on Archana's hands and feet in a very intricate and beautiful pattern.  Henna signifies the strength of love in the marriage, so the bride leaves it on for as long as possible.  Tumeric powered is considered a beautification process and that is applied 5-7 times.  Guests at each residence celebrate with food, song, dance and grog.
   The wedding was held at Archana's home under a MANDAP (canopy).  Archana's dress was a red sari, heavily embroidered with gold.  The red is significant of fertility.  She wore traditional gold jewelry and looked absolutely Beautiful.  Nikesh wore a SHERWANI (long tunic).
   When Nikesh arrived at the wedding, his future father-in-law washed his feet and performed another small prayer called DWAR PUJA.  Archana's mother welcomed him with a colorful flower garland.
   When Archana walked in we all stood, She had her head covered and eyes down and was led by her maternal uncle, female cousins and friends.
    Archana's parents gave their daughter to Nikesh (KANYADANA PUJA) by putting her right hand into his while reciting sacred verse.  The GANTHIBANETHSAN, tying the knot, is done by pinning a ribbon to the couple to protect them from evil influences.  Nikesh holds Archana's hand and they both take vows to love, cherish and protect each other.
   Keeping the with Indo-Fijian tradition, all the food and decorations were made by family members.
   I wore my first sari.  Ashni and Sheetal dressed me each day and I am truly appreciative.  I felt very beautiful.  Bindi, is probably one of India's best recognized symbols.  I wore a Bindi between my eyebrows on my forehead.  The forehead is a symbol of knowledge.
   Aum, Om is the most powerful symbol in Hinduism.  All major mantras start with AUM.  Aum represents Brahman, the Almighty.
   I believe we went to Dr. Hasaan's daughter's traditional wedding in Wellsville???????

Pictures to follow.....