The reception is usually held immediately after the wedding. It is an opportunity for relatives, friends and well-wishers to bless the newly weds, enjoy a sumptuous meal with them and give them gifts.

 << Back

The bride is bid a tearful farewell by her parents, siblings, relatives and friends. It is a sad moment as she steps into a palanquin, a specially decorated car, and leaves for her new home.

 << Back

The bride's first step into her new home is considered auspicious. She is the ghar nu laxmi or the goddess Laxmi who will bring wealth and good fortune to her home. Hence, the bride is welcomed by her mother-in-law who performs a small ritual. She places a vessel, filled to the brim with rice, at the entrance of the house. The bride must knock the vessel down gently with her right foot, spilling some of the rice over. The rice is a symbol of wealth and by following the ritual she conveys her full understanding of her duties responsibilities towards her new home.

 << Back