Since when did the use of the shola Topor Mukut become popular in bengali wedding?

1. Since when did the use of the shola Topor Mukut become popular in bengali
wedding?

The Shola Topor Mukut: A Symbol of Bengali Matrimonial Tradition
Introduction
The Shola Topor (worn by the groom) and Mukut (worn by the bride) are iconic headpieces
traditionally made from shola pith—a delicate, spongy white plant material derived from the
Aeschynomene plant, commonly found in Bengal’s wetlands. Today, these items are inseparable
from the visual identity of a traditional Bengali Hindu wedding.
Historical Background & Rise in Popularity:
Origins:
The use of shola crafts in Bengal dates back centuries, but the specific adoption of shola-made
ceremonial headgear like the Topor and Mukut is believed to have gained prominence during the
late 18th to early 19th century, particularly among upper-caste Bengali Hindu families during the
Bengali Renaissance.
Ancient origin:
According to a legend the tradition of using shola Topor and mukut is believed to be attached with
the roots of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva asked a man named malakar to make the shola Topor.
Since then the Topor is used in Hindu wedding.
Influence of Nobility:
The tradition was popularized during the colonial period when zamindars (landlords) and the elite
class began incorporating elaborate wedding customs influenced by a mix of indigenous and colonial
aesthetics. The Topor and Mukut, being lightweight yet ornate, became a favored choice for
wedding rituals.
Cultural Significance:
Over time, wearing the Topor and Mukut became symbolic of marital sanctity and auspiciousness.
The Topor, in particular, is said to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the newlyweds.
Craftsmanship and Regional Artistry
• The artistry is rooted in rural Bengal, especially in regions like Nadia, Murshidabad, and
Hooghly, where sholapith artisans meticulously handcraft each piece.
• Despite modern influences, this traditional craft continues to thrive, especially during the
peak wedding seasons.
The Shola Topor and Mukut became popular in Bengali weddings during the 18th–19th centuries,
evolving from regional artisanal roots into powerful cultural symbols. Today, they remain a
cherished part of Bengali heritage, blending tradition with artistic beauty.
2.What is Shola?
*About Shola*: Shola is a dried milky white spongey plant.Tribal people used to eat and cook the
soft part of Shola .At first the bottom part of Shola plant has to be dried in sunlight to kill algies .
Then you can use it for crafting .

Shola plant Dry shola
*Uses of Shola:*
– Topor Mukut for Bengali wedding
– Festive Decoration
– Decorative Items
– Religious Items
*Characteristics*:
. Lightweight
.Eco-friendly
.Ivory white plant
.Grows in marshy waterlogged areas
*Found in:*
Grows especially in the areas of Bengal, Odisha, Assam .
*khat*
.The basic tools required to design
.metal cutter or knife
*Best Quality*
The best quality shola is characterized by a pure white, smooth surface with soft bark, and *Shola
Ghar* Strives to deliver the highest quality product to its customer.
3.How to make Shola Topor Mukut ?
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a Shola Topor (for the groom) and Mukut (for
the bride):
*Materials Needed:*
.Sharp blade or cutter
.Scissors
.Glue (white craft glue or fevicol)
.Thread or thin wire (for structure)
.White cardboard (optional, for base)
.Pencil & ruler
.Decorative items (optional): sequins, golden thread, glitter
How to Make Shola Topor (Groom’s Headgear):
Step 1: Create the Base
Cut a strip of cardboard (about 24–28 inches long, 3–4 inches wide).
Form it into a cone to fit the groom’s head.Secure with glue and tape. Let dry.
Step 2: Cut the Shola
Use the blade to slice thin, decorative patterns like spirals, curls, flowers.
Traditional designs include:
.Conch shapes (shankho)
.Lotus petals
.Tiny spirals and twisted rods
Step 3: Attach Shola Decorations
Glue the Shola pieces onto the cone base in layers, starting from the bottom up.
Alternate between different shapes to add texture and detail.
Add a central top finial (a pointed piece or small flag-like piece).
Step 4: Add Support Use thread or thin wire inside the cone to reinforce structure.
How to Make Shola Mukut (Bride’s Crown):
Step 1: Base Frame
Use a thinner strip of cardboard or Shola to form a tiara-style. Ensure it fits across the
forehead and around the head comfortably.
Step 2: Shola Designs
Cut petal and leaf-like shapes from Shola.
Create a symmetrical pattern — typically with a central flower or conch.
Step 3: Assembly
Glue the designs onto the tiara base.
Add small Shola pieces or pearls on the sides.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Let everything dry completely.
Tips:
Practice shaping Shola first — it’s soft Use reference photos of traditional designs.
*Patience* is key; intricate detailing is what makes these pieces special.
Making of shola products
4.Why Do Bengali’s prefer Shola over Thermocol for wedding rituals?
The Reasons *Bengalis Prefer Shola Over Thermocol are:
*Traditional & Cultural Significance*
Shola is deeply rooted in Bengali heritage and is considered auspicious for weddings and religious
rituals.
*Handcrafted Elegance*
Shola work is handmade and reflects skilled craftsmanship, unlike mass-produced thermocol items.
*Natural & Eco-Friendly*
Shola is a biodegradable plant material, while thermocol (polystyrene) is non-biodegradable plastic
and harmful to the environment.
*Aesthetic & Texture*
Shola has a soft, ivory-like texture that looks more elegant and sacred compared to the synthetic
shine of thermocol.
*Symbol of Purity*
In Hindu rituals, Shola is seen as pure and divine, suitable for bridal and groom adornments.
*Cultural Identity*
Using Shola in items like topor and mukut is a mark of Bengali identity and pride.
5.What are the harmful insects for Shola products?
*Harmful Insects* for Shola Products:
*Silverfish*
Feed on organic materials like Shola, paper, and starch-based glue.Thrive in dark, humid places.
*Booklice (Psocids)*
Attracted to mold on Shola in damp conditions.Can cause surface damage by grazing on the
material.
*Termites*
Although rare, termites can attack organic plant-based materials like Shola if not treated.
*Moths (Larvae stage)*
Not common, but if Shola is mixed with fabric or glue, some larvae may feed on it.
6.Which precautions we should maintain to keep shola products safe?
Harmful Factors:
*Moisture / Humidity*
Causes mold growth and weakens the Shola. Makes it attractive to insects like booklice and
silverfish.
*Direct Sunlight*
Can discolor or make Shola brittle over time.
*Dust and Dirt*
Attracts pests and can lead to surface damage or dullness.
*Fungal Growth*
In damp conditions, fungi can grow on Shola, leading to decay and odor.
*Protection Tips:*
.Store in a dry, well-ventilated area.
.Don’t touch it on wet hands.
.keep the product in a damp free area.
.Keep it into the box .
.keep away from direct sunlight.
.keep away from insects.
. Keep away from fire.
7.How the rituals of wearing Topor Mukut started in Bengali wedding?
The ritual of wearing Topor and Mukut began as a religious and symbolic practice in ancient Bengal,
evolved through folk art traditions, and became a widespread cultural custom during the medieval
and colonial eras. It remains a distinctive symbol of Bengali Hindu marriage rituals even today.
1. *Ancient Vedic Influence*
Hindu wedding rituals in Bengal trace back to Vedic times, where white headgear and sacred attire
were used to symbolize purity, divine blessing, and readiness for a holy union. The Topor and Mukut
evolved from these early practices, influenced by the use of sacred materials like flowers, leaves, and
natural fibers.
2. *Shola Craft and Folk Art*
The use of Shola , a spongy white plant material, gained prominence during medieval Bengal (13th–
16th centuries). Shola artisans (called Malakar ) began crafting ritual items including crowns,
garlands, and deities’ decorations. These artisans introduced Shola headgear as part of wedding
rituals, replacing more perishable or costly alternatives.
3. *Rise During the Late Medieval & Colonial Era*
By the 18th–19th century, wearing Topor and Mukut became a formal part of Bengali Hindu
weddings, especially among upper-caste families. The British colonial period saw a rise in ceremonial
display and preservation of Bengali customs as identity markers. Shola art and Topor became
symbols of cultural pride and ritual .
4. *Religious & Symbolic Meaning*
The Topor is associated with Lord Vishnu or Chandra (the moon god), representing peace and divine
protection.The Mukut, often lotus-shaped, links the bride to Goddess Lakshmi or Durga, symbolizing
fertility, grace, and prosperity.
8.Why Are There Two Flower Petals Hanging on the Groom’s Topor?*
The two flower-like hanging elements on a Bengali groom’s Topor are not just decorative — they
hold symbolic and cultural meaning. Here’s why they are included:
* *Symbolic Reasons:*
*Blessings and Purity*
The petal-like elements (often called kola ful or lata) represent divine blessings, purity, and
auspiciousness — key themes in Hindu weddings.
Protection from Evil
In traditional belief, these floral extensions act as spiritual protectors, warding off negative energies
or evil eyes from the groom during the sacred rituals.
* Lunar & Celestial Symbolism*
The symmetrical petals are said to represent balance, calmness, and the moon’s grace, aligning the
groom with serenity and focus before entering marriage.
* Aesthetic and Cultural Function:*
The Petals on the groom’s Topor add elegance and visual appeal while symbolizing love, Prosperity
and Bengali culture heritage.
*Traditional Shola Art Design*
The petals are part of classic Shola craft patterns, adding elegance, detail, and identity to the Topor’s
design.
*Regional Identity*
These floral elements help distinguish the Bengali groom’s attire — it’s a mark of Bengali cultural
tradition So, those hanging petals are more than decoration — they’re a blend of spiritual
symbolism, cultural identity, and artistic craftsmanship.

9. 🪶 Is It Important to Use a Feather on Top of the Mukut?
No, it is not strictly necessary, but using a feather on top of the Mukut is a traditional and symbolic
choice in Bengali weddings.
Why Feathers Are Often Used:
*Symbol of Purity and Grace*
The feather, often white, represents purity, peace, and spiritual elevation — aligning with the bride’s
sacred role in the wedding.
🪶 *Inspired by Goddess Imagery*
The feather adds a divine, goddess-like aura, symbolizing the bride as Lakshmi or Durga entering her
new home.
*Visual Elegance*
It enhances the beauty and height of the Mukut, adding a soft, graceful finishing touch to the bridal
look.
When It May Be Skipped:
Modern brides or minimalist designs may leave out the feather for a more subtle or contemporary
look.
but using a feather on the Mukut is traditional and meaningful, but not mandatory. It’s up to the
bride’s preference, style, and the type of ceremony being followed.
10. When does the Bengali bride start carrying the gachkouto?
Generally , After the morning bath and before or during the puja rituals. The bride usually takes a
ceremonial bath in the morning (often after the Gaye Holud, if it’s held the day before or earlier that
morning).Then she performs puja at home, often to the family deity or at the Tulsi plant.
The gachkouto is usually introduced at this point, especially it holds symbolic items like sindoor,
coin , used during these early rituals.
11.When does the bride carry it physically?
While sitting for the morning rituals or puja, the bride may have the gachkouto next to her or hold it
When she is being dressed for the wedding (especially in traditional attire with the mukut and alta),
she may carry or be photographed with the gachkouto.
In some families, she may also carry it during her journey to the wedding mandap or when entering
the ceremony, especially for symbolic photos or video moments.
Event Gachkouto Presence
Morning bath Not yet
Pre-wedding puja Yes (starts here)
Getting ready Optional, for photo/tradition
Going to mandap Optional/symbolic
If you’re preparing for a wedding and want to follow tradition respectfully, starting to carry the
gachkouto after the morning puja rituals begin is a meaningful and appropriate time.
gachkouto
12. What are the significance of” Sat Paak – e Bandha “?
“Sat Paak-e Bandha” (সাতপাকে বাাঁধা), which literally means “bound in seven circles.” This ritual is
one of the most important moments of the marriage ceremony. In this ritual, the bride and groom
are tied together with a cloth (usually the bride’s saree with the groom’s uttoriyo or a sacred
thread), and they take seven rounds around the sacred fire.
Meaning & Importance of Sat Paak-e Badha
1. *Symbol of Union and Commitment*
The bride and groom are tied together with a cloth (usually the groom’s uttariya and the bride’s
saree) and they walk around the sacred fire (Agni) seven times. Each circle or “paak” represents a
vow, expressing mutual promises for love, trust, and support throughout life.
*Seven Promises / Vows*
With each round, the couple is believed to silently take vows related to:
.Love
.Trust
.Mutual respect
.Commitment
.Shared responsibilities
.Family values
.Spiritual growth
*Witnessed by Fire (Agni)*
The fire is a divine witness to their vows. It’s believed to purify the union and seal their promises.
*Equality and Partnership*
The act of walking together emphasizes equal partnership, walking side-by-side into a new life.
*Cultural Meaning*
In Bengali tradition, this ritual emphasizes the inseparability of the couple.The phrase “Sat Paake
Bandha” has become synonymous with marriage itself in Bengali language and literature—
symbolizing a permanent bond
Satpake Badha is more than a ritual — it’s the spiritual *heart of a Bengali wedding* . It transforms
the union into a sacred covenant, witnessed by fire, families, and the divine. It’s a beautiful blend of
*tradition, symbolism, and *emotion* .
13. What are the significance of Pan pata ?
Significance of Pan Pata in Bengali weeding : ,During the Subho Drishti ritual in a Bengali wedding,
the bride covers her face with two paan leaves. This symbolizes modesty, tradition, and creates
suspense for the first gaze between the bride and groom.
*Ritualistic Purity:* The act of not looking at the groom before the designated moment signifies
ritual purity and sacredness. It represents the bride’s transition from her *old life to the new one.*
*Builds Anticipation:* The hiding of the face and the eventual first eye contact with the groom
creates emotional anticipation. It highlights the *”Subho Drishti”* moment as auspicious and
memorable.
*Symbolic of New Beginnings:* When the bride finally uncovers her face and looks at the groom, it
*symbolizes the beginning of their union , witnessed by family, friends, and the divine .
Subho Drishti
14.Why Bengali Grooms Use a Darpan in Weddings?
*Maintains Ritual Modesty*
Traditionally, the bride keeps her head bowed down and eyes closed during the sindoor daan. The
groom uses a *darpan* so he can correctly apply the sindoor to her maang without her raising her
face, preserving shyness and modesty.

*1. Symbolic First Look – The groom sees the bride’s face for the first time through a darpan
(mirror) during the Subho Drishti or Sampradan ritual. It represents a pure and spiritual connection,
avoiding direct physical contact and focusing on emotional bonding first.
*2. Sacredness and Shyness Preserved – The mirror acts as a cultural bridge—maintaining the
sanctity and modesty of the bride, while still initiating the couple’s spiritual connection.
*3. Mirror as a Witness – In ancient customs, the darpan symbolized a witness to truth. By
seeing each other through it, the mirror becomes a silent divine witness to their union.
*4. Transition from Reflection to Reality* – The mirror symbolizes the reflection of self and the
transformation from individual identity to marital unity. It metaphorically shows how two souls will
soon see their true selves in each other.
* Historical Roots of Using Darpan*
*1. Vedic Symbolism*
In Vedic rituals, mirrors were seen as tools of clarity, truth, and soul reflection. Ancient texts speak
of darpan as an item used in spiritual introspection and marriage rites.
*2. Royal Traditions*
In medieval Bengali and Indian royal weddings, mirrors were used for the bride and groom to see
each other formally and ritually, often with symbolic gestures of modesty and grace.
The darpan in a Bengali wedding is not just a mirror, but a symbol of reflection, union, purity, and
timeless tradition. It connects the modern couple to centuries of heritage, while gently guiding them
into the sanctity of marriage.
Darpan for sindoor daan ritual
15.why bengali groom’s attier changed by brides family in the rituals ?
In a traditional Bengali Hindu wedding, the ritual where the bride’s family changes the groom’s attire
holds deep symbolic and cultural significance. This ritual is typically part of the “Saat Paak” and
“Mala Bodol” segment or sometimes takes place during a pre-wedding or wedding-day ritual
depending on the specific regional or family customs.
Here’s why this ritual is done:
Symbolism Behind Changing the Groom’s Attire by the Bride’s Family:
*Formal Acceptance Into the Bride’s Family:*
Changing the groom’s clothes symbolizes his transition from being an outsider to becoming a part of
the bride’s family. It marks the family’s acceptance of him as their own, and they welcome him with
new garments.
*Purification & New Beginnings:*
Just like the bride wears new attire, the groom is also given fresh clothes as a sign of starting a new
phase of life. The change of clothes symbolizes purification, shedding the past, and embracing
marital responsibilities.
*Offering of Respect and Honor:*
The act of offering new clothes (often a traditional dhoti or kurta with a topor) is a sign of respect
and honor from the bride’s family. It’s a form of hospitality—dressing the groom in fine clothing
reflects the family’s joy and the importance of the occasion.
*Traditional and Ritualistic Roles:*
In Hindu marriages, symbolic acts like changing clothes often accompany important transitions (e.g.,
from bachelorhood to marital life . In some rituals like Adhibas Tatva, the bride’s family sends gifts,
including clothes for the groom, before the wedding.
*What Kind of Attire Is Given?*
Typically, the groom is given:
*.* A silk dhoti and kurta or Punjabi.
*.* Topor
This ritual, while deeply symbolic, also serves a practical role in the ceremony and is a
way of *tying both families together in mutual respect and celebration.*
Changing the Groom’s Attire by the Bride’s Family
16.What are the significance of “Lajjabostro “ in a Bengali Wedding?
🪶 *1. Meaning of Lajjabostro*
“Lajja” means modesty or shyness; “Bostro” means cloth. A cloth symbolizing the bride’s modesty
and purity.
*2. Part of the Sampradan Ritual*
During Sampradan, one of the core rituals in a Bengali wedding. The bride’s father or a guardian
gives the bride away to the groom. Lajjabostro’s Role: A new saree or a special cloth (usually red or
yellow) is placed over the bride’s head and shoulders, handed over to the groom.
*3. Symbol of New Beginnings*
Represents the bride’s transition from her paternal home to her new life with the groom. It is gifted
by the groom’s family, signifying acceptance and union.
*4. Expression of Modesty and Shyness*
The act of covering the bride with the Lajjabostro reflects traditional values of humility, respect, and
modesty, expected of a newlywed bride.
*5. Spiritual & Emotional Significance*
Symbolizes the blessing of elders and the sacred bond formed through marriage. Acts as a protective
covering, aligning with the idea of spiritual purity and sanctity during the wedding rituals.
*6. Unity of the Couple*
Often, the Lajjabostro is tied with the groom’s attire (usually with his uttariya or panjabi),
representing the eternal bond and unity of the couple. This knot remains tied until the completion
of the ceremony.
*7. Cultural Continuity*
A deeply rooted custom passed down through generations, preserving Bengali traditions and
identity in weddings.
The Lajjabostro is more than just a piece of cloth—it holds *symbolic, emotional, spiritual, and
cultural importance* in a Bengali wedding. It honors the bride’s modesty, marks the transition into
her new life, and celebrates the sacred *union of two souls in a traditional and meaningful* way.
Lajjabostro
17.Why Bengali’s celebrate Mala Bodol rituals in their wedding?
*The Significance of Mala Exchange in Indian Weddings *
One of the most beautiful and symbolic moments in a traditional Indian wedding is the exchange of
garlands, also known as the “Varmala” ceremony. But have you ever wondered why the bride and
groom exchange these floral garlands?
* Symbol of Acceptance*
The primary meaning of this ritual lies in mutual acceptance. When the bride and groom place the
mala around each other’s necks, they are symbolically saying: “I accept you as my partner in life,
with love, respect, and honor.” It is the first step towards building a life together — not just
physically, but emotionally and spiritually.
* Beginning of the Union*
The garland exchange marks the start of the marriage ceremony. Before the vows and the sacred fire
rituals, this moment represents the couple’s willingness to marry one another.
* Cultural and Spiritual Significance*
Flowers in the mala signify purity, beauty, and blessings.
The circle of the garland symbolizes eternity — a relationship without beginning or end. It is also
seen as invoking divine blessings, as garlands are traditionally offered to deities in Indian culture.
*A Fun and Joyous Moment*
varmala becomes a fun-filled event, with friends and family lifting the bride and groom to playfully
make it a challenge. This adds a light-hearted and joyful start to the serious commitments ahead.
Malabodol
The mala exchange is more than just a floral ritual — it’s a sacred *promise, a cultural treasure,
and a joyous celebration of unity and love.*
18. What are the Important Dashakarma items for Bengali weedings ?
*items:* Earthen Lamps (Diyas): Used for lighting during various rituals.
Incense (Agarbatti, Dhoop, Dhoona): For offering prayers and creating a sacred atmosphere.
Ghee: Clarified butter, essential for the hawan (fire ritual).
Coconut: A symbol of good luck and prosperity.
Cotton Wick: For the lamps.
Aalta (Red Lac Dye): Applied on the bride’s hands and feet.
Sindoor (Vermillion): Used to fill the parting of the bride’s hair.
Gangajal (Holy Water): From the Ganges River, used for purification.
Ganga Mati (Holy Mud): From the Ganges, used for purification.
Dhunochi: An incense burner.
Kush: Sacred grass used in rituals.
Betel Leaves and Nuts: Used in various rituals, often offered as part of blessings.
Turmeric: Used in the Gaye Holud (turmeric paste) ceremony.
Mustard Oil: Used in the Gaye Holud.
Husked Rice: Used in blessings.
Treifol Leaves: Used in blessings.
Dhan (Unbroken Rice): Used in blessings.
*2. Utensils:*
Brass, Copper, and Kaansa Utensils: Used for various rituals and offerings.
Brass Pradip: Brass lamp for lighting.
Copper Devi Ghat: A copper pot for rituals.
Brass Aam Pallav: Mango leaves made of brass.
Brass Coconut: A brass replica of a coconut.
Copper Hawankund: A copper fire pit for hawan.
Copper Kosha Kushi: Copper spoon and bowl set.
Special Pradip (Small, Medium, Big): Earthen lamps of various sizes.
Special Dhakni / Khuri (Small, Medium): Small earthen lids for lamps.
Moochi For Gaaye Halud Rituals: A small pot for the Gaye Holud.
Latai: A small bamboo tool used in rituals, sometimes placed on the Baran Dala.
*3. Decorative Items:*
Boron Dala/Thali: A decorative tray for presenting gifts and items.
Topor: A conical headgear for the bride, traditionally made of shola .
Shital Pati: A decorative mat for the Pati Potro/Adan Pradan ceremony.
Palki Style Tatwa Suchi: A decorative tray for the Tatta ceremony.
Tatwa Tray: Another name for the Tatta tray, often made of paper.
*4. Other Important Items:*
Idol of Lord Narayan: For the Satyanarayan puja.
Kumkum (Red Powder): For making tilak.
Supari (Betel Nuts): For rituals.
Kori (Cowrie Shells): For rituals.
Sankha Pola: Red and white bangles worn by the bride.
Alta: Red dye for the bride’s hands and feet.
19.What are the significance of Piri in Bengali Wedding?
In Bengali weddings, the ” *Piri* ” (পপাঁপি) – a small, low wooden seat or stool – holds significant
ritualistic value, especially during key ceremonies like Subho Drishti, Mala Badal, and Saat Paak.
*Ritual* *Piri’s Role*
Saat Paak Bride seated on piri circled around groom 7 times
Shubho Drishti Couple exchange first glances while on the piri
Holy Platform Used in various rituals as a sanctified seat
Symbolism Stability, sacred space, marital foundation
🪶 Wood Used to Make Piri in Bengali Wedding
. Sirish wood . Sishu or Sheesham Wood
. Neem Wood . Mango Wood etc.
Among these type of woods Shola Ghar prefer to use Sirish wood for piri , beacuse it withstands
various weather conditions , so that you can keep the product intact for years after purchasing , and
also the designs on piri are created by our expert artists .
*Significance of piri :*
.It marks a designated, sanctified space for the couple during religious rites.
. symbolizing unity, protection, and spiritual completeness.
.It symbolizes acceptance and mutual respect.
20.What are the rituals of a Bengali wedding from morning to night ? (For Bride)
*Shankha Pola Wearing*
The bride wears shankha (white conch shell bangles) and pola (red coral bangles) – symbols of
married life, typically put on by a married woman in the family.
*Briddhi Ritual*
Briddhi is a pre-wedding ancestral worship ritual performed separately by the bride’s and groom’s
families, usually the day before the wedding.
* Morning Rituals*
*1. Gaye Holud*
Time: Morning or late morning
Participants: Bride’s family and close friends
Turmeric paste (gaye holud) mixed with mustard oil is applied to the bride’s face and body.
Traditionally, this turmeric is brought from the groom’s side, along with gifts and a decorated fish
(symbolic). The bride is seated on a piri (wooden stool) covered with an alpana (ritual design). Family
members smear the paste one by one while blessing her.
*2. Snan*
After haldi, the bride is bathed in holy water, usually collected from a nearby river or pond, to purify
her before the wedding
* Midday: Pre-Wedding Meals & Preparations*
4. Light Meal for the Bride
The bride eats a vegetarian meal prepared by her mother or elder women. Post this meal, she
usually fasts until the wedding rituals are completed.
*5. Bridal Dressing*
The bride is adorned in her wedding saree (usually Banarasi or Korial), with gold jewelry, alta on her
feet, and elaborate makeup. Her hair is styled, and she wears a mukut (headgear) and veil. A kajollata / gachkouto is kept with her to ward off evil spirits.
*6. Reception of Groom’s Party*
The groom’s procession arrives with music and fanfare. The bride’s family welcomes the groom
(bor) at the entrance with an aarti, conch blowing, and sprinkling of rice.
The groom is offered sweets and water and escorted inside with respect.
* Evening: Main Wedding Rituals*
*7. Bor Boron (Welcoming the Groom)*
The bride’s mother performs aarti and receives the groom.
He is then led to the wedding mandap or chadnatolla (sacred altar).
*8. Saat Paak & Shubho Drishti*
The bride is carried (often by brothers or male relatives) seated on a pidi and is rotated seven times
(saat paak) around the groom. After that, shubho drishti — bride and groom look into each other’s
eyes.
*9. Mala Bodol*
They exchange flower garlands(mala) three times as a symbolic acceptance of each other.
*10. Sampradan*
The bride’s father (or guardian) gives her hand to the groom’s, symbolically transferring
responsibility. A sacred thread is tied between them, and a priest recites mantras.
*11. Yagna and Sindoor Daan*
A sacred fire (yagna) is lit, and the couple chants vows with the priest. The groom applies sindoor to
the bride’s hair parting .
* Late Night: Post-Wedding Rituals*
*12. Bashor Ghor / Bashor Raat* : Friends and cousins stay up teasing the couple with fun games
and songs. In traditional settings, the bride and groom don’t sleep that night.

*13. Bidaai (Farewell to the Bride)*
This emotional ritual marks the bride’s departure from her maternal home. The bride throws rice or
puffed rice behind her, signifying repayment of parental love and care. Her family blesses her and
sends her off in a car with the groom’s family

Rituals glimpse of Bengali wedding
————————————————————————————————————————–
21. BENGALI GROOM’S WEDDING DAY RITUALS (Morning to Night) For Groom
* MORNING RITUALS*
*1. Dodhi Mongol (দপধ মঙ্গল)*
Time: Early morning (before sunrise)
What Happens: Groom eats a meal of sweet curd and flattened rice (chire), symbolizing purity and
fasting until the wedding.
Significance: Marks the start of auspicious wedding day rituals.
*2. Snan (Pre-Wedding Bath) – Gaye Holud for Groom*
What Happens: Groom is anointed with turmeric paste by family and friends. Then takes a holy bath.
Significance: Cleansing and purifying the body before the sacred ceremony.
Similar to: The bride’s Gaye Holud, but usually held earlier or separately.
* 3. Puja and Tying of Gaachh Kori (গাছ েপি)*
What Happens: Sacred thread is tied on the groom’s wrist after a brief puja.
Symbolizes protection and blessings from ancestors and deities.
Done By: A priest or family elder.
* 4. Preparation and Barat Departure*
What Happens: Groom dresses in traditional attire (usually dhoti-kurta or sherwani with topor).
Barat (wedding procession) leaves for the bride’s home or wedding venue with music and
celebration.
Significance: Formal journey to claim his bride.
* EVENING RITUALS (At Bride’s Venue)*
* 5. Bor Boron (বর বরণ)*
What Happens: Groom is welcomed by the bride’s mother with a lamp, sweets, and water pot
(shagun). A ritual aarti is performed to bless him. Welcoming the groom into the bride’s home or
venue with respect and tradition.
* 6. Piri Asana & Saat Paak*
What Happens: Bride is brought seated on a decorated piri. Carried 7 times around the groom (Saat
Paak).
Groom’s Role: Waits on the wedding mandap, watching and participating in the joyous ritual.
Symbolism: Circle of protection and completeness.
* 7. Shubho Drishti (শুভ দৃষ্টি)*
What Happens: Bride and groom exchange their first glance, after the bride uncovers her eyes.
Significance: Sacred moment of mutual consent and divine blessing.
* 8. Mala Badal (Garland Exchange)*
What Happens: Groom and bride exchange flower garlands.
Significance: Symbolizes acceptance of each other as life partners.
* 9. Sampradan & Kanyadaan*
What Happens: The bride’s father gives her away to the groom, placing her hand in his. A lajja bastro
is handed to the groom.
Groom’s Role: Accepts bride with sacred commitment.
* 10. Homagni & Saptapadi (Fire Rituals & Seven Vows)*
What Happens: The couple performs rituals around the sacred fire. Take seven symbolic steps
(Saptapadi) together.
Groom’s Role: Recites vows and participates in fire rituals under priest’s guidance.
* NIGHT RITUALS (After Marriage Rites)*
11. Bashor Ghor / Bashor Raat
What Happens: Night of games, singing, and bonding between the bride and groom’s families.
Groom and bride may stay up talking, playing traditional games.
Significance: Lighthearted introduction and celebration of togetherness.
Time Ritual Significance
Morning Dodhi Mongol Start of sacred wedding fast
Morning Gaye Holud (Turmeric Bath) Purification before marriage
Morning Gaachh Kori & Puja Ancestral & divine blessings
Noon Barat Departure Formal procession to wedding venue
Evening Bor Boron Groom’s welcome by bride’s family
Evening Saat Paak & Shubho Drishti First sacred interaction with bride
Evening Mala Badal Mutual acceptance via garland exchange
Night Sampradan & Fire Rituals Spiritual union and marriage vows
Late Night Bashor Raat Joyful bonding and light rituals

22.How many types of marriages are there according to Hindu scriptures? And what are the
procedures for performing these marriage rituals?
In Hindu scriptures, particularly the Manusmriti and Dharmashastras, eight types of marriages
(called “Ashta Vivaha”) are described. These are not all considered equally righteous or
acceptable—some are ideal and sanctioned by Dharma (religious law), while others are tolerated or
even condemned.
The Eight Types of Hindu Marriages (Ashta Vivaha)
Type of
Marriage Description Dharma Status
1. Brahma
Vivaha
A marriage where the bride is given to a man of good
character and learning, invited by the bride’s father. Highly approved
2. Daiva Vivaha The daughter is given as a gift to a priest (Brahmin) as
part of a ritual offering during a Yajna (sacrifice).
Approved but considered
inferior to Brahma
3. Arsha
Vivaha
The bride is given in exchange for two cows or
symbolic gifts from the groom to the bride’s family. Modestly approved
4. Prajapatya
Vivaha
The bride is given with a blessing and an emphasis on
performing family and societal duties together. Approved
5. Asura
Vivaha
The groom gives money or gifts to “buy” the bride from
her father. Disapproved
6. Gandharva
Vivaha
Marriage based on mutual love or consent of the
couple, often without parental involvement. Tolerated, but not ideal
7. Rakshasa
Vivaha
The bride is taken by force (abduction), typically in
wartime or battle. Condemned
Type of
Marriage Description Dharma Status
8. Paisacha
Vivaha
The bride is seduced or raped, often when she is
unconscious or under intoxication.
Strongly condemned