A traditional Gujarati wedding is not just an event; it’s a grand celebration filled with vibrant colours, heartwarming rituals, and, of course, delicious food. Gujarati wedding rituals are deeply rooted in culture and tradition, making the wedding a soulful experience.
One thing that stands out in a Gujarati wedding is the lavish food. If you’re planning a wedding in the UK, finding the right Gujarati wedding caterers in London is essential to ensure an authentic experience.
This blog will offer you a brief guide to Gujarati wedding rituals, highlighting the role of authentic food in making the celebration unforgettable.
Before diving into the specifics, let’s take a look at the beautiful customs that make a Gujarati wedding so unique.
1. Chandlo Matli: This marks the official engagement, where the bride’s father applies a red dot (chandlo) on the groom’s forehead and gives him a token amount as a blessing.
2. Gol Dhana: Symbolising the sweetness of the union, this ceremony includes the exchange of jaggery and coriander seeds, representing an auspicious beginning.
3. Griha Shanti & Ganesh Sthapan: Before the wedding, prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles and bless the couple with prosperity.
Let’s walk through the main wedding rituals that bring the bride and groom together in this sacred bond.
1. Pithi: The bride and groom are covered in a turmeric-based paste for glowing skin and spiritual purification.
2. Mameru: The bride’s maternal uncle visits her with gifts, including the traditional wedding saree and jewellery.
3. Mehendi: The bride’s hands and feet are adorned with henna designs, symbolising beauty, love, and prosperity.
4. Sangeet: An evening of musical celebrations, where both families come together for performances, dancing, and festive cheer.
5. Jaan: The groom arrives at the venue, and the bride’s mother playfully grabs his nose, signifying the groom’s gratitude towards his new family.
6. Kanyadaan & Hasta Milap: The bride’s father gives her hand to the groom, marking the beginning of their lifelong journey.
7. Mangal Pheras & Saptapadi: The couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire, signifying their vows of love and companionship.
The wedding may be over, but the celebrations continue with these emotional and meaningful post-wedding traditions.
1. Vidaai: A bittersweet moment where the bride bids farewell to her family and leaves for her new home.
2. Ghar Nu Laxmi: The bride is welcomed into the groom’s home as the goddess of prosperity, bringing love and fortune.
3. Aeki Beki: A playful game where the newlyweds search for a ring in a tray of water, milk, and vermillion. The winner is said to have the upper hand in the marriage.
What’s a wedding without mouth-watering food? From Dhokra, Jalebi, and Undhiyu to rich sweets like Kesar Mani and Mohanthal, the wedding feast is a delight! A Gujarati wedding is a blend of devotion, joy, and grandeur. From vibrant customs to delicious food, every aspect makes it an unforgettable celebration.
Whether you’re the bride, groom, or a guest, experiencing Gujarati wedding rituals is something you’ll cherish forever. And if you are planning a wedding in London, Bharat Gangaram is the go-to name for Gujarati wedding caterers in London.
Our expertise in crafting exquisite menus ensures a flawless experience. Whether you want an intimate gathering or a grand banquet, we bring the authentic taste of Gujarat to your special day with impeccable service.
For the best Gujarati caterers in London, trust Bharat Gangaram to bring the flavours of Gujarat to your wedding feast.
