Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Here is some more information about the Hindu wedding ceremonies (from the booklet the bride's family gave all the foreign guests) as well as additional pictures from the wedding:
(The pictures aren't working....will post this now and try the pictures again tomorrow)

An Arya Samaji Wedding
An Arya Samaji wedding is conductd as per Vedic rites. The ceremony is performed wiht Fire and other Elements serving as the witnesses. The wedding mantras chanted are translated from the Sanskrit into a language the couple can understand - in this case English - so that the couple may relate to the meaning and significance of the wedding mantras. Simplicity is the essence of an Arya Samaji wedding. The wedding ceremony lasts for an hour.

Baraat or Jaan (Welcoming of the Groom)
Christian (the groom) arrives for the wedding with his family and friends, seated on a horse, in a festive, music-filled procession. On arrival of the Jaan, Kavita's (the bride) mother welcomes Christian. She places an earthen pot at the entrance that symbolizes the bitter sweet experiences of life. Christian shatters the pot with his foot demonstrating his commitment to overcoming obstacles in the life he has planned for kavita and himself. (see pic from last entry)

Var Puja (Prayer for the Groom)
Christian is welcomed by the form of Vishnu, the preserver of life in the Hindu tradition. Kavita's parents wash is feet and offer him a mixure of honey, ghee, and milk.

Kanya Agaman (Arrival of the Bride)
Anterpat, a courtain, is held in front of Christian, as Kavita is guided to the Mandap and seated across from Christian after which the anterpat is drawn.

Jai Mala (Exchange of Garlands)
Kavita and Christian exchange garlands symbolizing their formal acceptance and respect for each other.

Prarthna Mantra (Prayer)
The Gayatri mantra is chanted by the priest to invoke the blessings of Ganesh, the Hindu god of wisdom and remover of obstacles.

Madhupak (Offerings)
Kavita offers a mixture of honey and yogurt to Christian. Honey symbolizes the sweetness of eternal love and yogurt is offered for his good health.

Agni Pradipan
The priest kindles the sacred fire. The wedding is solemnized before Agni (fire), the symbol of knoledge, power and purity. Agni serves as the principle witness at the ceremony.

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