Marwari weddings are a spectacular blend of tradition, opulence, and deep-rooted customs that make them one of the most extravagant wedding celebrations in Indian culture. Originating from the vibrant state of Rajasthan, these weddings bring together family, music, grandeur, and of course, a lavish feast! For Indians living in the USA, a Marwari wedding is not just an event—it’s a homecoming, a way to stay connected to ancestral traditions while celebrating love in the most regal way possible.
We had the pleasure to plan a spring Marwani wedding at the the Legacy Castle in New Jersey. It was a beautiful venue for a lavish event, with the Indian ceremony taking place on the balcony and the reception in the Grand Legacy Ballroom.
Courtesy: House of Talent Studio
If you’re planning or attending a Marwari wedding, get ready for a multi-day extravaganza filled with colorful attire, meaningful rituals, and a whole lot of dancing! Let’s dive into the beautiful traditions that make Marwari weddings so special.
The Attire: A Royal Affair
Courtesy: House of Talent Studio
The bridal and groom’s outfits in a Marwari wedding are nothing short of regal. The bride stuns in a vibrant silk lehenga choli, heavily embroidered with intricate Rajasthani patterns. She completes her look with traditional jewelry like the borla (a unique maang tika), rakhri, chura, bichiya (toe rings), and the iconic nath (nose ring).
The groom, on the other hand, dons a majestic sherwani or achkan paired with a pagri (turban) and a kamarbandh (waistband). To top it off, he accessorizes with a pearl-studded necklace and embroidered jootis.
The Feast: A Culinary Extravaganza
No Marwari wedding is complete without an elaborate spread of authentic Rajasthani delicacies. Guests are treated to a variety of dishes such as:
Dal Baati Churma: A classic Rajasthani dish of baked wheat dumplings served with lentils and sweetened crushed wheat.
Gatte Ki Sabzi: Spiced gram flour dumplings in a rich yogurt-based curry.
Ker Sangri: A traditional dish made with dried berries and beans native to Rajasthan.
Mawa Kachori: A deliciously sweet and flaky deep-fried pastry filled with rich mawa and nuts.
The Most Memorable Marwari Wedding Rituals
Marwari weddings are packed with fun-filled traditions that bring families together. Here are some of the most cherished ones:
Pre-Wedding Rituals
Roka
The official beginning of the wedding journey where both families bless the couple and exchange gifts.
Byah Haath
Women of the family gather to sing wedding songs and prepare special sweets for the couple.
Naandi Ganesh Pooja
A sacred ceremony seeking Lord Ganesh’s blessings for a smooth wedding.
Mehendi
The bride’s hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune.
Mudda Tikka (Engagement Ceremony)
The formal ring exchange between the bride and groom in the presence of family and friends.
Wedding Day Rituals
Telbaan & Pitthi Dastoor
Courtesy: House of Talent Studio
A pre-wedding beauty ritual where turmeric, curd, and mustard oil are applied to the bride and groom for a radiant glow.
Nikasi
Before leaving for the wedding venue, the groom’s sister ties his sehra (floral headpiece) and applies kajal behind his ear to ward off evil spirits.
Baraat & Toran
The groom arrives at the wedding venue with a grand procession of family and friends dancing to lively music. Before entering, he touches a decorative toran (hanging at the entrance) to remove negative energy.
Jaimala
The bride and groom exchange flower garlands as a symbol of acceptance and love.
Kanyadaan & Saptapadi
The bride’s parents give her away to the groom, followed by the sacred seven pheras (circles around the holy fire), signifying their lifelong vows.
Sindoor Daan
The groom applies vermillion on the bride’s forehead, marking the official beginning of their married life.
Post-Wedding Rituals
Vidaai
An emotional farewell as the bride leaves her parental home to start a new chapter with her husband.
Pag Phera
A visit back to the bride’s home a few days after the wedding, where she is welcomed with warmth and blessings.
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