Marriage in Hindu Community of Hindi Speaking States

According to Hindu beliefs, the positions of the planets are the determining factors that favor alliances between the bride and bridegroom. In the Indian context marriages are social and not individual, because they are relatives or other family members who decide who should marry whom, and that too within the same caste, practice same religion, have studied well and holds a good job.

There are five Hindi speaking states, particularly, Delhi, U.P., M.P., Bihar and Rajasthan. These states have a perfect blend of all the religions, but the Hinduism is mostly followed by the people of these states. Unlike other religions, Hinduism is not based on beliefs and teachings; but is a broad term that defines a number of religious beliefs and customs, which have been followed by the people residing in these states and other parts of India.

The followers are free to follow any god and even if they do not want to follow any, no one has the right to force them. The beliefs and teachings of Hinduism is not defined anywhere, and the people have been following the rituals and customs, in Hindi matrimony particularly, which have been followed by their ancestors and is flexible to interpretation..

Most of the Hindu families follow the same set of rituals; the differences come with the changing states. The most common aspects of a Hindi matrimony are:

1- Fixing of wedding

2- Engagement

3- Haldi ceremony

4- Mehedi ceremony

5- Tilak

6- Varmala

7- Kanyadaan

8- Saat phere

9- Sindoordan

10- Vidaai

The wedding reception is conducted by the family of the groom to honor the bride, where there is lavish dinner. The bride and groom are showered with blessings and gifts that may include gold jewelry and household items that would be helpful in the future life of the couple.

Author: Rashmi Karan