Vishal’s Hindu wedding comprises of several individual ceremonies. After the Mayan (Miyaan) comes the Sangeet – bit of fun for all the wedding guests – then the Sainth, a religious ceremony with oils, natural plants and seeds. The priest conducts the ceremony – which could be on the floor of the temple, or as here in the family home. The key family members sits round in a circle in front of the priest, and participate throughout.
What a beautiful buttercup yellow sari with mehndi - so just couldn't resist starting with this glorious splash of colour!
natural green leafy plants during the Sainth ceremony
The coconut always appears at Hindu weddings, and has many different levels of significance
The coconut is passed to one of the family by the Hindu priest.
The marks on the coconut maybe perceived as representing the three-eyed Lord Shiva so it brings good luck. Sometimes it is smashed to reveal its soft white centre, representing the human brain, as it looks a bit like a human head, thus the ego is squashed and presented to the Lord.
flower petals in a dish - all part of life...
Here is more of the evening’s story in pictures…..
Hindu priest with the Groom's Father
Colourful offerings
Oh such happiness!
Oh little baby...!
Prayers
Hands...
Young and old sit down on the floor together.
The headdress that the groom will wear the next day at his Sehra Bandi and Baraat
Candles are lit...
Hands held out above the burning candles...
Money is given here too.
Just a moment in time, as the candles are passed round and hands add money to the tray.
Petals garnish the offerings, like so many strands of hundreds and thousands on fairy cakes
Blessing from the priest for the little boy
Glasses of milk brought in by the Groom's mother
Happy smiles again as the milk arrives.
Time for gifts...
Presents.
So much happening!
Everyone - nearly...
Groom Vishal and his brother Dinesh causing a stir!
Night!
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