Garhwali Wedding
India is the land of 28 beautiful States and 7 Union Territories. Each state is different from another in many ways. Each state has its own language,
traditions, customs, rituals etc. In short and snappy terms, unity in diversity is one of the finest features of India. India is distinguished for its proud
culture and customs and one of them is Indian Wedding. Each state has its own style, own style even own wedding ways.
One of the beautiful states of India is Uttarakhand. This state has two regions Garhwal & Kumaon. Garhwal is a beautiful region surrounded by stunning hills,
picturesque vistas and scenic beauty on all sides. Furthermore, it is also well known for its superb wedding traditions as well as anti dowry approach. Today
the time has been changed but some customs are still the identical in the region such as pre-arranged marriages are preferred, matching the horoscopes of the
future bride and bridegroom, status of the family, rigid caste system etc.
After following all the above steps engagement ceremony is the next pivotal step of Garhwali wedding. By tradition, the marriage procession is led with a
white flag known as Nishan (representing the bridegroom) along with traditional band that are shehnai, piper, a pair of drummers and a nagara. The last man
of the marriage procession carries red flag that represents the bride. On arrival at the brides residence like any other Indian wedding food is served along
with flawless services and ethnic style. Nose ring ceremony also known as nath ceremony is one of the unique customs of Garhwali Wedding. In this ceremony
beautiful traditional Nath is presented to the bride.
After that the Phera ceremony takes place. In succinct, they have to complete the seven rounds of the sacred fire. While returning the marriage procession is
led with the red flag along with the red ‘Doli’ of the bride as well as Palki of the bridegroom. Now the last man of the marriage procession carries white
flag instead of red flag. Many rituals and ‘Puja’ takes place from beginning to last till the bride finally steps into bridegrooms house. Gauna system is
not the part of Garhwali Wedding.
In addition, Garhwali songs, dance, local cuisine, traditional dresses, jewellery all these are few other special features of Garhwali Wedding.