Vivah Sanskar
How the wedding unfolds, stage by stage
A stage-by-stage walkthrough of the Vivah Sanskar: from the welcome of the groom and the Kanyadaan, through the sacred fire, the Saptapadi, and the Laja Homa, to the blessings of the elders.
Ganesh Puja & Mandap
The wedding mandap is prepared with the sacred fire at its centre, and Lord Ganesha is worshipped to remove any obstacles to the union.
Welcome of the Groom (Milni & Madhuparka)
The groom is received with honour by the bride's family; a madhuparka, a welcome offering of honey and yogurt, is given as a mark of respect.
Kanyadaan
The bride's parents lovingly give her hand to the groom, entrusting the couple to one another in dharma.
Vivah Homa (the Sacred Fire)
The sacred fire (Agni Dev) is kindled as the divine witness to the marriage, and offerings are made into it as the vows are taken.
Panigrahana & Saptapadi
The groom takes the bride's hand, and together they take the Saptapadi — the seven steps, each a shared vow for the life ahead. In many communities this is woven together with the saat phere, the circling of the fire. With the seventh step, the marriage is complete.
Sindoor & Mangalsutra
In many traditions the groom applies sindoor in the bride's hair-parting and ties the mangalsutra, marking her as his life-partner. (This stage varies by region.)
Laja Homa
The bride offers puffed rice (kheel) — traditionally placed in her hands by her brother — into the sacred fire, a prayer for the couple's lasting prosperity.
Ashirvad (Blessings)
The newly married couple seek the blessings of the elders and the gathered family, closing the ceremony with the aarti.
