Oriya Wedding Culture and Traditions

Oriya wedding is like any Hindu wedding in India. The rituals and the traditions are somewhat same as another Indian marriage. In case of Oriya wedding, the only difference is that the mother of the groom does not participate in the marriage. Various pre and post wedding ceremonies which are practiced since ages are held. After the suitable alliance is found, some 'shagun' is given to the groom so that further search is stopped. Generally, some cash and sweets are given. Girl is also given some clothes by the groom's family.

An auspicious date is decided for the wedding. Generally, horoscopes are matched to find a good day for the ceremony.

"Jayee anukulo" ceremony is held in the beginning. In this ceremony, invitation cards are sent to all friends, relatives and family members. The first card is sent to family diety or the Lord at "Jagannath Puri". The second card is sent to the maternal uncles of the bride and groom. Then the cards are sent to all relatives, friends and neighbors.

After this another important ritual takes place which is called "Mangan" tradition. In this ceremony, a paste is made by grinding the turmeric and sandal and it is applied on the body of bride. It is done to make a radiance affect on the skin of the bride. She is given ceremonial bath after this. Water is fetched from some holy place or temple by the women folk who make a gathering and carry a large pot and went to the place singing traditional songs.

The "Diya Mangula puja" is held after this.

The prayers are made to the diety in a temple. The barber of the family offers the bride's saree, toe rings and sindoor to the goddess. The purpose is to seek the blessing of the gods and goddesses for the long and prosperous happy life ahead.

Groom attires in his best outfit and make himself ready for the wedding.

In "Barajatri ceremony ", the groom with a procession of his friends, relatives and family members arrive at the wedding venue. The entire crowd is dancing to the tunes of famous numbers which may be regional. The girl is informed after the groom's procession arrives. She is made ready for the wedding and she is given a holy bath.

She is decorated by her friends and cousin. Lots of jewels with the traditional items adore the beauty of the bride. She is generally dressed in a red, orange or pink outfit.

"Kanaya dan" ceremony is held at the wedding venue. The bride arrives at the already built structure with lots of flowers and leaves. The father of the bride holds her hands and gives it in the hand of groom. The mantras are enchanted by the priest and water is poured over it. This is traditional giving of a daughter to the boy. The vows are taken by the groom and he promises to take a good care of the girl and accepted her as his wife.

After this, fire is lit and priest enchants the mantras and shlokas. Seven rounds are taken by the couple around the fire. The sacred fire is considered a witness for the marriage.