Brendan & Sharanya
About an Indian Wedding
Brendan and I will be getting married in a traditional Konkani, Hindu Ceremony. The ceremony and reception will both be at the same venue- the Colony Club and on the same the day, December 27th. Please plan to arrive for the Barat at 2:45pm, which will be followed by the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner and reception. I have included some details about the evening below.
Barat
Brendan will make his grand entrance into the venue. He will be ushered in by a long line of his family and friends, who are all singing, dancing, and wishing Brendan well. My family will meet Brendan and the procession of family and friends at the entrance and welcome them. The Barat symbolizes the groom's journey to unite with his bride and bring the families together. We welcome you to join us for the Barat.
Ceremony
During the ceremony, Brendan, our parents, and I will be at the Mandap (similar to an altar) and do the following:
Varmala
Mangal Phere
Saptapadi​
This is an exchange of flower garlands symbolizing the commencement of the Hindu wedding, serving as the first time the Bride and Groom meet before starting the wedding ceremony
We will walk around the fire (Agni) seven times to represent the seven vows or promises exchanged by the couple as they circle the sacred Agni. Each round, or phera, represents a specific promise related to our life together, like love, loyalty, respect, and commitment. This ritual is considered a pivotal moment, solidifying our bond and our entry into marriage.
The couple performs saptapadi or the “Seven Holy Steps” together. Each step starts by taking a blessed vow:
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We will respect each other always.
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We'll strive for balance in body, mind, and spirit.
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We'll work together to grow and prosper.
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Love will guide us to happiness and harmony.
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We'll raise virtuous, brave children.
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We'll live faithfully with self-discipline and longevity.
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We'll be lifelong partners on a path to spiritual fulfillment.
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Mangalsutra
Ashirwad​
Lifelong protection is offered by the groom by securing mangalsutra (black bead necklace) around the neck of bride. The mangalsutra is a visual representation of a woman's married status and is worn continuously throughout her marriage. It is to be worn like a wedding ring.
Bride and groom then bow down to take blessings from the priest, elder relatives and both the parents. Meanwhile, the guests throw rice and flowers on the couple, wishing them a prosperous, happy and long married life.
Cocktail Hour and Reception
The wedding ceremony will be followed by a cocktail hour, dinner, and reception! These events will take place from 5pm onwards.