A traditional Hindu wedding ceremony is a time of great celebration that is abound with traditions that can still be enjoyed in a modern American community. Here are some of the most common traditions.

Main Rituals- There are many rituals that can be included when it is time to perform a wedding. Some of the most important are the Saptapad, the Kanyadaan, and the Panigrahana.
The Saptapad- A seven step ritual of vows that the groom and bride make to each other.
The Kanyadaan- The Kanyandaan is a ceremony script that is performed traditionally by the bride’s father or guardian in which the hand of the bride is given to the groom. It includes the groom’s promise in pursuing dharma, artha and kama. Thanks to online ordination in the Universal Life Church, The Kanyadaan can still be performed in any wedding ceremony today.
The Panigrahana- Performed in the presence of fire, when the groom takes the hand of the bride as a symbol of union.

Traditional Garb- The traditional bridal dress is a sari complete with all the ornaments. The bride will wear her hair in a bun and cover it with a crown and a veil. The veil, or the ghunghat, can vary in length and is a symbol of respect to the elders present and the deities. A chunri is also worn tucked into the waisted at one end and pleated around the body to drape over the bride’s shoulder.
The groom wears a Dhoti, a shirt and an unstitched garment. When he arrives at the bride’s house he will change into a very similar outfit, and cover himself with a sheet and paper mache headdress, known as a topor.

Procession Party for the Groom- Also referred to as the Baraat, dancing and joyful family members and friends of the groom will travel to the bride’s home, or the location of the ceremony. The groom, himself, travels along, often by horse. When the procession arrives, the meeting and welcome ceremonies take place.

Symbolic Food- The father of the bride will offer the groom a gift of honey and yogurt, as a sign of respect and welcoming. A dinner composing of many traditional foods is often served to the guests during the ceremony.

When you perform a wedding of your own, it is important to include the traditions that have the most meaning for you and your new family.