4 Unique Things to Witness at a Marathi Wedding

Indian weddings are an extravagant affair. With their traditional charm and beauty, they strive to bring a sense of overwhelming joy for all Indian couples. Different regions carry their own culture in a remarkable manner.

The myriad of traditional ceremonies present in a Maharashtrian wedding not only make for a special occasion for the whole family but also live as a collection of cherished moments that no guests forget! If you want to be a Marathi bride, let us help you find the perfect match. Visit any Marathi Matrimony site today and discover your future life partner.

A few of the Marathi ceremonies, rituals, and traditions have such unique characteristics to them that it makes for a must-see for all the guests having a great time. Be it the gorgeous attires, the larger-than-life ceremonies, or the intimate settings filled with great love towards the culture; everything sets the impression.

Have you given a thought to finding that perfect match for yourself? If you are interested in Marathi matchmaking, you can visit any Marathi Matrimony app on Play Store. Some things part of the Maharashtrian wedding can be a surprise for those attending for the first time. If you’re a first-timer and want to be prepared for all the fun, then here are five unique things for you to witness at a Marathi wedding:

1. Mundavalya

Those that have seen a Marathi couple getting married must have noticed the couple wearing a noticeable head accessory across their forehead – it’s known as the Mundavalya. The Maharashtrian wedding includes different accessories for the bride to wear, out of which one is called the Mundavlya. She is gifted the Mundavalya ornament and a heavy Paithani saree at the Gaurihar puja by the groom’s parents.

The string is designed in different ways – it can be made with pearls, gold or simply using fresh/artificial flowers and is worn during the wedding ceremony by both the bride and groom. Wearing the Mundavalya is essential as it showcases the bride’s agreement and happiness towards the marriage ceremony. She can be seen wearing the head accessory when she walks with her maternal uncle towards the wedding station.

2. Antarpat

During the Marathi wedding, a particular ceremony takes place called Mangalashtak (offering of prayers), where the Hindu priest chants to the universe almighty to bless the couple. While the ceremony is taking place, the bride and groom are separated from one another by a silk woven fabric. The groom is already present at the mandap, but once the cloth is put up, the bride walks in while the priest recites the chants in the background.

All family members join the priest to recite the Mangalashtak chants together and pray for the couple’s blissful marriage. Once the chants come to an end, the Antarpat is removed from between the couple and can finally look at one another. To finish the ceremony, an exchange of garlands occurs called the ‘Jai Mala‘ ceremony while the rest of the family members throw flower petals and rice on the couple to shower their ‘blessings.’

3. Kaanapali

Toward the end of the Marathi wedding ceremony, once the holy fire is put out and the ‘Laxmi pooja‘ is finished, another small ritual occurs. Every family member awaits this ceremony so that they can enjoy and make fun of the groom together. A lovely gesture from the bride’s brother is displayed through a custom called ‘Kaanapali.’ The tradition is where the bride’s brother pulls at the ears of his brother-in-law.

The reason behind this mischievous act is to put him in his place – that being married to his sister, now it’s the groom’s responsibility to take care of the bride. To remind him of his marital duties and protection towards the bride, the brother enacts this unique custom! Even so, the ritual is followed by the brother-in-law purchasing a gift to honor the bride’s brother that he let go of his ear without causing much damage!

4. Maharashtrian Cuisine

Even though the food served in Maharashtra is simple and has limited variations, it carries its traditional and heritage tastes that are lip-smackingly good. The Maharashtrian cuisine comprises varied flavors that complement both its regions – coastal and inner-state.

It may be famous for batata vada and vada pav, but one can find plenty of other delectable dishes/drinks to try their first time – bhajjis, bhaji puri, bhaat, puran poli, etc. everything part of the Marathi cuisine is a must-try! According to the wedding budget and setting, the dishes may vary, but you’ll surely get to taste the classic recipes.