The Haldi ceremony is a pre-wedding ritual that is popular in Hindu weddings. It is a traditional ceremony where a paste made from turmeric, sandalwood, and other natural ingredients is applied to the bride and groom’s body. The paste is believed to have purifying and beautifying properties and is meant to ward off evil spirits. The bride and groom may have this ceremony jointly or on separate dates and seperate locations.
During the ceremony, family members and close friends gather to apply the paste to the bride and groom. The ceremony usually takes place a few days before the wedding and is considered an auspicious event. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple and their families.
Every family likes to put their own personal take on this age old tradition. The Haldi paste can by applied many different ways. Some use blades of grass or leaves while others use their hands. There is a hierarchy as to whom get to apply the haldi first and when. The family elders always come first out of respect and continues to go on from there. It does get a little crazy when the groomsmen or cousins get involved. So, get ready for some fun.
The Haldi ceremony is also a festive occasion, with singing, dancing, and feasting taking place. It is an opportunity for family and friends to come together and celebrate the upcoming wedding. Oh, and one last tip. You might want to think about bringing a change of clothes for this celebration, like I said, it can get a little crazy fun. Know what I mean?