Among the many vibrant Indian wedding traditions, Marathi weddings stand out for their elegance, simplicity, and deep spiritual meaning.
Known for being rich in rituals yet humble in presentation, a Marathi wedding is a beautiful blend of tradition, family, and culture an emotional journey that unites not just two people but two families and lineages.
Whether you’re planning your own wedding or simply curious about Maharashtrian customs, this comprehensive guide walks you through every step of a Marathi wedding from pre-wedding rituals to post-marriage traditions.
1. The Essence of a Marathi Wedding
The Marathi community follows the principle of “Sada Jeevan, Uchha Vichar”— meaning “simple living, high thinking.”
This philosophy beautifully reflects in their weddings, where the focus is on spiritual connection, cultural purity, and family harmony rather than extravagant displays.
Most Marathi weddings are conducted in the morning hours, as it’s considered the most auspicious time (muhurat) according to Hindu astrology. The ceremonies are filled with prayers, songs, and blessings that invoke peace and prosperity for the couple.
2. Pre-Wedding Rituals: A Joyful Beginning
A. Sakhar Puda (Engagement Ceremony)
The first step toward the wedding, Sakhar Puda marks the formal engagement between the two families.
The groom’s family visits the bride’s home and gifts her clothes, jewelry, and sugar (sakhar), symbolizing the sweetness of their upcoming union.
B. Kelvan (Pre-Wedding Feast)
A few days before the wedding, both families organize a small ceremony at their respective homes to worship their family deity and bless the couple.
It’s followed by a hearty Marathi meal enjoyed with close family and friends.
C. Halad Chadavane (Haldi Ceremony)
This vibrant ritual involves applying turmeric paste (halad) mixed with sandalwood and rosewater to the bride and groom.
It purifies the body and soul while adding a natural glow to the couple before the big day.
3. The Wedding Day: Traditions Rooted in Spirituality
A. Ganapati Poojan
Every Marathi wedding begins with prayers to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, seeking divine blessings for a smooth ceremony.
B. Punyahavachan & Devdevak
These rituals involve invoking ancestors’ blessings and symbolically inviting deities to witness the marriage.
C. Antarpat & Mangalashtak
A silk or cotton cloth (antarpat) is held between the bride and groom so they cannot see each other initially.
As priests chant the Mangalashtak hymns, the cloth is lowered marking the moment when the couple sees each other and the wedding begins.This is followed by joyous music and family blessings.
D. Kanyadaan
The bride’s parents formally offer their daughter’s hand to the groom, entrusting her happiness and well-being to him.
It’s one of the most emotional and sacred parts of the ceremony.
E. Saptapadi (Seven Steps)
The bride and groom take seven steps around the sacred fire (Agni), each step representing a vow:
- Togetherness
- Strength
- Prosperity
- Happiness
- Family growth
- Health
- Lifelong friendship and faith
With each step, the couple promises to support one another through all stages of life.
F. Mangalsutra & Sindoor Ceremony
The groom ties a Mangalsutra a sacred necklace made of black beads and gold around the bride’s neck, symbolizing marital commitment.He also applies sindoor (vermilion) on her forehead, marking her as his life partner.
G. Karmasampati
This ritual concludes the ceremony, where the priest blesses the couple for a harmonious and prosperous married life.
4. Post-Wedding Traditions: A New Beginning
A. Varat (Bride’s Farewell Procession)
After the ceremony, the bride departs her parental home in a procession known as Varat.It’s a heartwarming and emotional moment, accompanied by music and blessings from elders.
B. Griha Pravesh (Homecoming of the Bride)
The groom’s family welcomes the new bride with aarti and symbolic rituals.
She gently knocks over a vessel filled with rice, representing the entry of prosperity and good fortune into her new home.
C. Reception
A modern addition to the Marathi wedding, the reception is a grand celebration with friends and extended family, marking the start of the couple’s journey together.
5. Traditional Marathi Wedding Attire
For the Bride:
- Paithani Saree: The pride of Marathi culture, usually in vibrant green, purple, or red with golden zari borders.
- Mundavalya: A string of pearls tied across the forehead — worn by both the bride and groom.
- Nath: A traditional Maharashtrian nose ring, symbolizing beauty and prosperity.
- Chooda: Green glass bangles paired with gold kadas.
- Kolhapuri Saaj: A traditional gold necklace worn by married women.
For the Groom:
- Kurta-Dhoti or Sherwani paired with a silk shawl.
- Pheta (Turban): A bright silk turban tied around the head.
- Mundavalya: Just like the bride, the groom wears this pearl adornment to signify readiness for marriage.
6. Food & Festivities: A True Maharashtrian Feast
No Marathi wedding is complete without a delicious, home-style feast!
Traditional wedding menus include:
- Puran Poli (sweet stuffed roti)
- Batata Bhaji
- Aamti & Varan Bhaat
- Shrikhand or Basundi
- Papad, Pickles & Koshimbir
7. Modern Trends in Marathi Weddings
While traditions remain strong, modern Marathi weddings now include creative elements like:
- Destination weddings at beaches or heritage forts
- Eco-friendly décor using local flowers and cloth
- Digital invitations with Marathi calligraphy
- Pre-wedding photoshoots
- Live streaming for NRIs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are Marathi weddings considered simple?
Marathi weddings emphasize cultural and emotional values over material display. Rituals focus on spirituality, purity, and family bonding rather than grandeur.
2. What’s the significance of the Mundavalya?
The Mundavalya a string of pearls tied across the forehead symbolizes that both the bride and groom are ready for marriage and new responsibilities.
3. Why are Marathi weddings held in the morning?
Morning hours are considered shubh (auspicious) according to planetary positions that bless the couple with positivity and harmony.
4. How long does a Marathi wedding ceremony last?
The main wedding rituals usually last 1–2 hours, while the overall celebration, including pre- and post-wedding events, can span 2–3 days.
5. Can Marathi weddings include modern elements?
Yes, couples today often blend traditional customs with modern trends like digital invites, themed décor, and destination venues keeping the essence intact.
Conclusion
A Marathi wedding is not just an event it’s a soulful experience that brings together faith, love, and family.From Sakhar Puda to Saptapadi, every ritual carries centuries of meaning and cultural pride.
While times have changed, the heart of Marathi matrimony remains the same a commitment built on trust, respect, and simplicity.Whether traditional or modern, big or intimate, every Marathi wedding is a reminder that true beauty lies in connection of hearts, families, and traditions.
