Alright, before we jump into the details of this special day, let me set the stage: I’m from the United States, and my now-husband is from India. As our love story unfolded, talk of tying the knot came up naturally. From day one, we were absolutely certain that we were meant to be together! But here’s the thing: with our wildly different backgrounds, we decided to celebrate the union of our love with not one, but two weddings! Why? To honor and celebrate every special, wonderful part of our unique cultures as we come together in holy matrimony.
Our Indian Wedding took place in December 2023 in Monish’s hometown of Vadodara, Gujarat, India at Laxminarayan Club & Resort. Our wedding lasted three days, with the first day consisting of the Mehndi Ceremony, which you can read about here. The second day unfolded with a busy agenda, commencing with the morning Pre-Wedding Rituals, followed by the Haldi Ceremony in the afternoon, and concluding with the lively Sangeet in the evening. And then came the big day – the wedding ceremony! With that, our incredible Indian wedding journey officially came to a close. Get ready to dive into the colorful world of Indian wedding ceremonies! Join me as I share my personal experience as a bride amidst the vibrant celebrations. It’s time to kick off this party in style!
The Different Aspects of an Indian Wedding
It’s important to note that India is one of the most diverse countries in the world, home to 28 different states and 8 union territories. Within these regions there are thousands of small ethnic groups and tribes, hundreds of different languages that are spoken, and an array of different religions that are practiced among the Indian people. That said, Indian weddings themselves are incredibly diverse, and often differ depending on which region you live in/are from.
My now-husband is from the state of Gujarat, the western jewel of India, making our wedding a vibrant Gujarati affair, fondly known as a “Gujju” wedding. Enriched by his Hindu heritage, our ceremony was graced by the presence of Hindu priests and adorned with sacred rituals, distinct from those of other faiths. As I recount my journey as a bride in a Gujarati wedding, please understand that my narrative reflects my unique experience, distinct from weddings in other Indian regions. Your questions and shared experiences attending Indian weddings are warmly welcomed in the comments below.
Now, I’ll delve into 12 distinct aspects of our Gujju wedding, offering a colorful glimpse into our unforgettable celebration. These include: The Baarat, The Bride’s Arrival, The Bride’s Red Dress, The Role of the Bride’s Parents, The Mandap, The Presence of Fire, The Prayer to Ganesha, Tying Together the Bride and Groom’s Garments, Exchanging Floral Garlands, The Mangala Sutra Necklace, The Red Powder in the Bride’s Hair, and The Vidaai Sendoff Ceremony. Let’s dive on in, shall we?!
The Baarat
The groom’s grand entrance, known as the baraat, is one of the most exciting parts of an Indian wedding! Picture this: a lively mini-parade where the groom and his crew make their way to the ceremony site in full-on celebration mode. Guests arriving are split into Team Bride and Team Groom, with the bride’s side heading to a special meeting spot while the groom’s squad gets redirected straight to the action.
Instead of quietly slipping into the wedding venue, the groom’s guests join in the baraat extravaganza—dancing, cheering, and grooving to live music alongside family and friends. It’s a joyous, high-energy moment where the two families start to blend amid a swirl of music, laughter, and love. Talk about making an entrance!
Traditionally, the groom arrives on horseback but the horse must be a ghodi (the Hindi word for female horse) as it is seen as a symbol of fertility, prosperity, and nurturing qualities. By choosing a female horse, the groom is believed to invoke these blessings for his new life with the bride. Monish, my groom, decided to stick with the tradition of entering on a ghodi, although nowadays grooms will often make their entrance via a fancy car, which is what our cousin’s husband chose to do.
The baraat is where the party truly begins! Traditionally, this epic parade starts at the groom’s family home and travels all the way to the wedding venue. In the past, this could take hours of dancing, drumming, and celebrating as the groom made his grand journey. These days, there’s a modern twist: if the venue isn’t nearby—or if Dadi (Grandma) and Dada (Grandpa) would rather save their energy for the actual ceremony—the baraat gets a creative refresh.
For example, even when the groom’s home is relatively close to the venue, the celebration might start at home, pause for everyone to hop in their cars, and then pick up again at the start of the street leading to the venue. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and practicality, keeping the energy high while ensuring no one misses out on the fun. So whether it’s a short procession or a dance-filled mini road trip, the baraat always delivers unforgettable vibes!
As the bride, I had a little FOMO during the baraat—I mean, who wouldn’t want to join in on the epic street party? But, alas, tradition had me sitting this one out (boo!). That didn’t stop me from encouraging my friends to dive into the fun. I told them, “This is your chance to experience an authentic Indian wedding in India—don’t miss it!” They didn’t need much convincing and ended up having the time of their lives, dancing, laughing, and soaking up the high-energy vibes of the baraat.
While my guests were out partying in the streets, I had a quieter moment in our room at the stunning Laxminarayan Club & Resort, which doubled as our venue and overnight stay. Even though I wasn’t in the thick of it, hearing the music and cheers echoing from outside filled me with excitement, knowing this was just the beginning of an unforgettable celebration!
The Bride’s Arrival
When the bride finally gets to make her entrance, she is accompanied four of her brothers, cousins or uncles as they represent her male “protectors”. Walking her down the aisle signifies their role in safeguarding her happiness and ensuring she’s lovingly guided into this new phase of life. Traditionally, she would be carried by these four male protectors on a dholi – a traditional, ornate seated carriage used in Indian weddings for the bride’s grand entrance, which historically served as a symbolic and luxurious mode of transportation.
Personally, I would have loved to have been carried in on a dholi! I’m so extra and this is a very extra type of entrance that was right up my alley. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to use a dholi during my entrance due to the size of the doorway that led to the terrace where the mandap was located. I was pretty bummed about this, but understood why we couldn’t make this beyond-extravagant entrance happen.
Instead, we used a more modern dholi – an elevated, decorative canopy or platform that is carried above the bride as she makes her entrance to the wedding ceremony. Unlike the traditional dholi in which the bride is seated and carried, this modern adaptation allows her to walk beneath the beautifully adorned structure, creating a regal and dramatic entry. My dholi was covered in beautiful flowers and carried by my brother, Keith, my friends, Derek and Mats, and my husband’s friend, Devansh.
The Bride’s Red Dress
Being a bride in an Indian wedding meant I got to dive into one of the most exciting parts of the wedding—picking the outfit! Traditionally, brides wear a red sari or a modern lengha on their big day, and let me tell you, it’s not just about the stunning looks. “The rich red tones paired with intricate gold embroidery symbolize commitment and fertility,” explains Patel. It’s a mix of tradition and meaning that feels so special.
But here’s where modern brides are switching things up: today’s wedding wardrobes are bursting with creativity! From pastel floral prints to vibrant greens and bold blues with luxurious embroidery, the options are endless. For today’s Indian brides it’s all about making the wedding day outfit uniquely theirs while embracing the cultural richness of the occasion. Although because I’m not a Desi woman myself, I felt it was important to stick to the tradition of wearing red to my wedding ceremony. As much as I love wearing sarees, I chose to wear a beautiful red lengha choli (also known as chaniya choli) that was beautifully adorned with embroidery, sequins and hand beading.
The Role of the Bride’s Parents
In Hindu weddings, the bride is seen as a form of the goddess Laxmi, and the groom represents Lord Narayana. Together, they symbolize a divine union, and the parents play an important role in bringing these two ‘gods’ together while everyone gathers to witness the moment. One key ritual, known as kanyadaan, is all about the bride’s parents, especially her dad, giving their blessing to the marriage. It’s a heartfelt moment as the father symbolically “gives away” his most treasured gift—his daughter—so she can step into a future filled with love, prosperity, and good fortune.
My situation was a bit different. I am estranged from my parents, and even if that weren’t the case, I’m not sure I could have counted on them to attend a Hindu wedding in India. This meant I needed “parents” to step in and perform this special ritual on my behalf. I feel incredibly blessed because several elders generously offered to fulfill this role, wanting to support me and help ease my in-laws’ hearts. However, there was one couple who stood out in my mind: Raju Kaka and Kumud Kaki (Kaka = Paternal Uncle, Kaki = Paternal Uncle’s Wife).
Raju Kaka has been a wonderful supporter of Monish’s and my relationship from the very beginning, even though it’s quite unconventional by Indian cultural standards. On top of that, he’s been a dedicated listener of my podcast, Distressed to Joyful; Bailey’s Way, since its launch—a gesture that means so much, especially since mental health is still a sensitive and often taboo topic in India. I’ve always felt a strong connection with him, and I couldn’t ignore the fact that he and Kumud Kaki have never had the chance to give away a daughter in marriage, as they don’t have children of their own. Offering them the opportunity to perform the kanyadaan felt like a meaningful way to honor our bond and give them a special experience that might otherwise never come their way.
The Mandap
The wedding mandap is the dazzling centerpiece of an Indian wedding—think of it as the couple’s own magical stage for saying “I do.” This temporary altar is often set up on an elevated platform, making it the ultimate spotlight for the big moment. But it’s not just any stage—it’s a work of art! A canopy dripping with flowers, luxurious seating, shimmering fabric, and sparkling crystals. It’s the stuff of fairytales!
Underneath this stunning structure, the couple is joined by the bride’s parents and the priest(s) for a ceremony filled with tradition, love, and lots of beautiful rituals. The mandap isn’t just a backdrop—it’s where the magic happens!
The Presence of Fire
At the heart of the mandap, a sacred fire comes to life, glowing warmly as the ultimate witness to the couple’s union. In Hindu tradition, marriage isn’t just a contract—it’s a sacred sacrament—and the fire (aag) plays a starring role, symbolizing purity and the couple’s commitment to their new life together.
One of the sweetest moments? The bride’s brother steps in to sprinkle some sibling love into the ceremony! Four brothers—or the same brother multiple times, depending on how many brothers or cousins the bride has—take turns handing the bride a fistful of rice, each one filled with heartfelt wishes for her happiness and a joyful marriage. With every offering, the couple tosses the rice into the fire together in a meaningful ritual called homam. It’s a beautiful mix of family, tradition, and love, all centered around the glowing flames of the mandap.
Prayer to Ganesha
The wedding ceremony officially kicks off with a heartfelt prayer to Ganesha, the beloved god of beginnings, good fortune, and obstacle-busting magic! This beautiful ritual sets the tone for the day as everyone offers salutations, asking Ganesha to bless the couple and clear the path for a smooth and joyful married life. It’s the perfect way to start such a monumental celebration—with positivity, blessings, and a dash of divine charm!
Tying Together the Bride and Groom’s Garments
One of the most meaningful moments of my Indian wedding was the saptapadi! This beautiful ritual is all about sealing the deal with friendship as the foundation of marriage. Depending on the region, the saptapadi takes on slightly different forms, and I loved how every step was filled with symbolism and emotion.
In Gujarati tradition, the bride’s veil and the groom’s sash are tied together as a sign of unity, and together, they circle a sacred fire four times. Each round represents a unique blessing they ask from the gods, covering everything from health and wealth to happiness and harmony. For me, it was such a surreal moment—walking around the fire hand in hand, knowing each step was setting the tone for our new life together. It’s the ultimate reminder that a successful marriage isn’t just about love; it’s about being best friends, too!
And here’s the cherry on top in Gujju weddings—after the final circle around the fire, there’s a playful tradition to determine who’s “the boss” in the marriage. The rule? Whoever sits down first claims the title. As the competitive woman I am, you better believe I was ready for this moment. With laser focus and a victorious grin, I beat him to the seat—and yes, I’m officially the boss! ??
Afterward, the saptapadi continues with the seven vows the bride makes to her husband. In our Gujju wedding, this tradition included my groom gently placing my toe on seven beautifully decorated betel nuts, one by one, with the priest having me recite a vow with each placement.
Exchanging Floral Garlands
The jai mala ceremony is a beautiful and heartfelt moment in an Indian wedding, where the newlyweds exchange garlands made of vibrant, fragrant flowers. This ritual ends with both the bride and groom wearing their jai malas, symbolizing their mutual acceptance and the blending of their families.
“To us Hindus, the jai mala is more than just a tradition—it’s a way of officially welcoming each other into our families,” explains Patel. “Without it, we don’t consider a marriage complete.” It’s a touching blend of love, respect, and unity that makes this moment unforgettable!
Mangala Sutra Necklace
One of the most cherished moments in an Indian wedding is when the groom drapes the mangala sutra—a stunning necklace of black and gold beads—around the bride’s neck. This sacred thread isn’t just jewelry; it’s a symbol of their marital bond and lifelong commitment. Traditionally, the mangala sutra is believed to carry the blessings of Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune, and prosperity, ensuring a life filled with abundance and happiness for the couple.
You might have noticed that my mangala sutra isn’t the usual yellow gold—there’s a fun story behind that! My mother-in-law, Hema (aka “meri nayi ma”), is the definition of a practical, modern woman who truly gets me. She knows I’m not a fan of yellow gold and, well, I can be a bit picky when it comes to jewelry—okay, let’s be honest, most things in life!
Instead of sticking to tradition, she went above and beyond. Not only did she take me to pick out my mangala sutra (yes, she’s that awesome), but she also asked the jeweler to customize it in white gold just for me. I chose a sleek, modern design that fits my everyday style yet carries all the tradition and symbolism of a mangala sutra. The best part? It’s so discreet that only Indian folks recognize its deeper meaning. Practical, personal, and totally me—it’s perfect!
Red Powder in the Bride’s Hair
One of the most iconic and meaningful moments in an Indian wedding is the application of sindoor—a vibrant red-orange powder that symbolizes a woman’s new status as a married queen! Once the ceremony is complete, the groom gently applies the sindoor to the part in the bride’s hair, marking the beginning of their new life together. This tradition is a beautiful mix of love, culture, and symbolism, sealing the deal in the most colorful way possible!
The Vidaai Sendoff Ceremony
The vidaai ceremony is one of the most deeply emotional moments in a traditional Indian wedding. It marks the bride’s departure from her parents’ home, symbolizing the start of a new chapter with her spouse. This ritual is often filled with tearful goodbyes, heartfelt embraces, and gratitude, as the bride expresses appreciation for the love and care she’s received throughout her life. In India, where women traditionally live with their parents until marriage, this ceremony represents the official transition from her childhood home—a moment that is as poignant as it is symbolic.
For me, however, the vidaai held a different meaning. Having not grown up in India and not leaving my family home, the ceremony didn’t carry the same emotional weight. Still, we honored this tradition as a respectful nod to the cultural significance it holds within Indian weddings, making it a meaningful part of the overall celebration.
Reflections on Being an Indian Bride
Despite all my deep research leading up to the big day (yes, everything I’ve shared in this article!), I still couldn’t anticipate everything that was in store. The 12 aspects I’ve highlighted are just the major moments among countless smaller ceremonies and rituals that made the day unforgettable. From the bride’s family playfully stealing the groom’s shoes to the groom carefully carrying a coconut until he reached the mandap, and the groom’s sisters whispering secrets for a happy marriage to the bride—it was a whirlwind of traditions and surprises. If I tried to include it all, this article would go on forever!
Since I knew there would be countless ceremonies beyond what I could prepare for, I decided to set one simple expectation: to embrace everything as it came. It’s a mindset I’ve been practicing ever since I first met Monish, and let me tell you, it didn’t just work—it made the day even more magical than I could’ve dreamed! Every moment of the celebration was bursting with joy, laughter, and so much love. The day was a whirlwind of emotions, and I embraced every single one with an open heart.
I never imagined I’d marry an Indian man, let alone celebrate our love in his beautiful country. But this experience turned out to be one of the most magical days of my life. Whenever I look back, I can’t help but shed tears of joy, feeling so incredibly grateful—not just for the wedding itself, but for the privilege of spending my life with Monish, my forever love.
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