Indian wedding functions, in order
An Indian wedding is not one event but a series of ceremonies spread over days. Here is every common function in the order it usually happens, what it means, and what to write on the invitation.
Customs vary by family and region — use this as a guide, and list only the functions you are hosting.
Before the wedding
- Roka — the families formally agree to the match; often a small family gathering.
- Sagai / Engagement / Ring ceremony — the couple exchange rings in front of family and friends.
- Tilak — the bride's family visits the groom's home and applies tilak, blessing him.
- Haldi — turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom for glow and good luck. A bright, playful daytime function.
- Mehendi — henna on the bride's hands and feet, with songs and dholki; guests get mehendi too.
- Sangeet — an evening of music and dance where both families perform.
- Mayra / Bhaat — the bride's or groom's maternal uncle brings gifts (common in Rajasthan and North India).
The wedding day
- Baraat — the groom arrives with family and friends dancing to the band.
- Milni — the elders of both families greet and embrace each other.
- Varmala / Jaimala — the bride and groom exchange flower garlands.
- Kanyadaan — the bride's parents give her hand in marriage.
- Pheras / Saat phere — seven rounds around the sacred fire with seven vows.
- Sindoor daan and Mangalsutra — the groom applies sindoor and ties the mangalsutra.
- Vidai — the emotional farewell as the bride leaves her parents' home.
After the wedding
- Griha pravesh — the bride's welcome into her new home.
- Reception — a celebration for a wider circle of friends, colleagues and relatives.
- Pag phera — the bride's first visit back to her parents' home.
Bengali wedding rituals
- Aashirbad (blessing)
- Aiburobhat (last bachelor meal)
- Gaye Holud (turmeric)
- Biye, with Shubho Drishti and Mala Badal
- Sindoor Daan
- Bashi Biye and Kalratri
- Bou Bhaat (reception and first meal cooked in the new home)
Tamil and South Indian rituals
- Nichayathartham (engagement)
- Pandha Kaal Muhurtham
- Mangala Snanam (holy bath)
- Kashi Yatra
- Oonjal (swing ceremony)
- Muhurtham with Kanyadaanam and Mangalya Dharanam
- Saptapadi
- Reception
Telugu, Marathi and Gujarati rituals
- Telugu: Pellikuthuru and Pellikoduku, Muhurtham with jeelakarra bellam, Talambralu, Saptapadi.
- Marathi: Sakharpuda, Halad, Simant Pujan, Antarpaat, Mangalashtak, Saptapadi, Varat.
- Gujarati: Mandvo Mahurat, Pithi, Garba-Sangeet, Jaan, Hast Melap, Pheras, Vidaai.
Questions
How many functions does an Indian wedding have?
Typically 4–8: Haldi, Mehendi, Sangeet, the wedding and a reception are the most common, with engagement and family rituals before.
Should every function be on one invitation?
Yes for family; for colleagues send a reception-only invitation. On Nimantro one invitation can hold up to 14 functions, each with its own date, venue and directions.