Introduction

	The marriage ceremony is one of the oldest customs of mankind and the Indian culture is no exception, and it is considered one of the most important events of one's life. In India, the Kanyadana (literally meaning, donating a virgin) or giving away one's daughter in marriage, was considered the greatest sacrifice a man could perform. It was also a duty performed by the bridegroom to perpetuate his lineage. By making marriage a sacrament, the Hindus elevated the physical union to spiritual dimensions [1]. Many in India consider marriage an integral part of human condition, binding not only in this life, but in the afterlife as well. Today, a marriage is perhaps the most important social occasion for any family, reflecting the regional color that overlays the basic Vedic rites. A muhurta or auspicious moment is chosen by the time of the year and the horoscopes of the bride and groom. Wedding preparations begin well beforehand. The wedding is usually conducted at the bride's home, in temples, and nowadays, in a parks, hotels, or in special marriage halls. Entire families congregate, with evenings spent in singing, dancing, and eating.

Indian wedding concept

	Weddings in India
	From the hymns and verses about marriage in the Vedas, we learn that mature individuals were considered ready for marriage after puberty. In subsequent times however, brides were married even in childhood, perhaps due to a series of foreign invasions in North India. In an attempt to provide security their women from the invaders, early marriages became the norm. According to the scriptures of Manu, divorce and remarriage were not permitted. Most references to marriage in the ancient texts suggest that the Aryans were monogamous. However, some references to polygamy and polyandry have been found in the Hindu epic of Mahabharata. In medieval India, the marriage was compulsory for all the girls except for those opted asceticism. Brahmin girls were married between ages eight and ten from sixth or century onwards up to the modern times. Polygamy was permitted to all who could afford, and it was especially popular among Kshatriyas for political reasons. According to the Manasollasa, the king should marry a Kshatria girl of noble birth for a chief queen though he is permitted to have Vaishya or Shudra wives for pleasure. Today, in India both divorce and remarriage are completely legal, whereas polygamy and polyandry are both criminal offences for Hindus, punishable by law. The Islamic personal law of Sheriat allows up to four wives for a man, and it is legal for a Muslim to have multiple wives in India.
	Wedding Varieties
	The customs during the wedding ceremony in India are varied and reflect the vast diversity of cultures of the land. The cultures have influenced each other with mutual borrowing of practices. A day before the wedding, the bride and her friends and female relatives gather for the ceremony of Mehendi, in which their palms and feet are decorated with henna. The bride is teased with music and dance, by the other women about her future husband and in-laws An wedding altar or mandapa is erected at the marriage venue on the day of the wedding, within which the ceremony is conducted. The poles of the frame are draped with strings of flowers. On the wedding morning, various rituals are performed on both the bride and the groom in their own homes. Their bodies are anointed with turmeric, sandalwood paste and oils, which cleanse the body, soften the skin, and make it aromatic. They are then bathed to the chanting of Vedic mantras. Today this is done symbolically, if at all, with a token application of turmeric, sandal wood, and oil on the face and arms, before the bath. The bride now wears all her finery, helped by her womenfolk. In the north and east, the ritual of putting Sindhoor, or vermilion powder, in the parting of the bride's hair is performed by the groom.. The husband dips his ring in vermilion powder and traces a line from the center of his wife's hairline to the crown of her head. Brahmin grooms who have not undergone the Upanayana ritual are given a symbolic initiation. Some warrior communities like the Kodavas involve sword wielding rituals in the ceremony. The gathering showers the bride and groom with flower petals ,While the Western societies glamorized and commercialized the flowers, it is only the Indians who have blended their lives with flowers.) and the couple come out of the mandapa. They touch the feet of their elders to receive blessings and are greeted by everyone present. The bride now leaves for her new home, bidding a tearful farewell to her own family. She now belongs to another family and no longer to her parents, for she has been ritually given away. They proceed homewards dancing and singing. When the bride arrives at her new home, an arati is performed for her by her mother-in-law and she is ceremonially ushered into the house. She takes care to enter, auspicious right foot first, gently kicking over a strategically placed measure of paddy as an augury of plenty for her new family. In today's India, the couple then leaves for their honeymoon.
	Weddings Attire
	In different parts of India, brides wear different kinds of clothes, ornaments, and adornments. The bride's clothes are usually typical of the area. A Rajasthani bride would wear a lehenga, a Punjabi bride would wear a salwar-kameez, and a Maharashtrian bride would wear a nine-yard saree. Most brides wear saris nowadays, usually in shades of red, pink or mustard. A bride sports as much traditional jewelry as her family can muster, for today, she is Goddess Lakshmi incarnate, harbinger of prosperity to her new home. Like her clothes, the bride's ornaments also differ according to local tradition. However, necklaces, earrings, bangles, rings, a nose-ring, anklets, and toe-rings are worn by most brides. Ornaments like armlets, tikas, hathaphula, and waistbands, traditionally important, are optional today and not worn in all areas. Traditionally, the bride was adorned with natural beauty aids. For example, a paste of henna was put over her nails, which stained them red. Her eyes were lined with kajal and scented water was sprinkled on her. Today, however, most brides, both in the urban and rural areas, use branded cosmetics and perfumes. In south India, flowers were, and remain, an important adornment, while the north is now beginning to rediscover this pretty custom. Most grooms in the north wear a shervani with a churidar pyjama, a bandha-gala suit, or a western-style suit. Turbans are also very popular, for the groom and the important members of his entourage. In the South, grooms either wear the traditional veshti (dhoti) and jubba (kurta) or a three-piece suit. North Indian grooms set forth to their weddings adorned with a sehera, a veil of flowers tied to the turban, to screen their faces from the evil eye (scarecrow).

Wedding invitation Cards

	Weddings Invitation Card - First Impression of your wedding
	Your wedding invitation is the first glimpse your guests will have of the magnificent wedding day you are planning. A unique wedding invitation, custom designed by you, lets your friends and family know just how special that day will be. Wedding invitation cards that you create is a reflection of your dreams that you have so long cherished about your wedding. The drape of the ribbon, the fine texture of the paper, the luminous colors, the crisp type; each detail of your unique wedding invitation express your intention. We offer you the finest papers and ribbons from around the world and employ superior printing techniques for an unmatched wedding invitation.
	..:: Tips from Wedding Planner Goa - Choose Your Wedding Cards ::..
	Choosing your wedding invitations can be downright overwhelming. Thousands of choices are available in the invitation books of stationers for you to review. Before you decide haphazardly on any old invitation, keep in mind the following very important aspects:
	..:: Wedding Venue ::..
	The site, setting and theme of your wedding should have an impact on the invitation you choose. Your invitation is meant to give your guests a feel for the theme of your upcoming nuptials. Many brides will design their wedding invitations in the colors of their bridesmaid’s dresses and flowers. For example, if you were planning to be married on Valentine’s Day you might choose invitations with a heart or cupid motif. Alternatively, if you were marrying at an informal luau wedding you might choose fun, Hawaiian-theme invitations. Deciding on your wedding’s style or theme beforehand will enable you to narrow down the choices of your wedding invitations. Remember,that a separate reception card should be included with your invitation if the reception will be held at a different location than the ceremony. A separate reception card is also required if only some guests are invited to the wedding reception. A separate map with directions should also be included to both the ceremony and reception sites.
	..:: Informal or Formal Wedding ::..
	In addition to the theme of your wedding, the formality of your wedding should also impact your invitation. For example, an intimate evening cocktail wedding and reception in your backyard will mean a simple, personalized invitation. While a formal church wedding and sit-down reception dinner will mean a traditionally engraved invitation with custom detailing.
	..:: Personal Touches ::..
	Your wedding invitation should most importantly reflect of your style as a couple. Many brides hire a wedding invitation designer to customize every aspect of their invitations; while more creative couples will make their own invitations with the help of arts and crafts stores, do-it-yourself invitation kits and stationary software that can be made right on your home computer.
	..:: Reply Cards ::..
	A small, separate card and a stamped, self-addressed envelope should also be included as they will prove helpful for arranging your guest list and catering.
	..:: Wedding Invitation Wordings ::..
	Today, a vast number of people – from the bride’s parents, groom’s parents, step parents, grandparents or the couple themselves might be financing a wedding. Therefore, all contributors deserve mention on the wedding invitation.

Wedding fireworks

	Weddings Fireworks
	Unlike Western nations, retail of fireworks is largely unrestricted in India. During wedding procession ,people have access to a variety of fireworks and most of them in urban areas set it off on the public roads running in front of their houses. In smaller towns, the large temples of the town typically have public fireworks displays. The Joy of Wedding among relatives and friends brings the spirit of goodwill and brotherhood and is celebrated during the wedding occasion across all religions in India. some popular fireworks include the famous 'phoolthari' or 'sparkler' which is commonly used in lighting most other fireworks. the 'anaar' or 'flowerpedal' comes out as a big mountain of fire when lighted. the 'zameen chakra' is a spinning circle of fire with sparks coming out of it. the 'rocket' is a popular but dangerous one as it can change it's course and go into buildings. bombs like 'chilli bombs',and laxmi bombs are becoming popular but disturbing(they have high intensity).

Wedding themes

	Wedding Themes Available in india
	MUGHAL THEME
	Go back to the historically fabled world of the great Mughals. "Chobedars" (gatekeepers) usher guests to the "daawat-khana" (dining room). Hostesses clad in silken, flowing "shararas" (skirts) and "chunnis" (veils) welcome the guests with flowers and "attar" (perfume) in the traditional style. Flamboyant folk dances herald a sumptuous spread of Mughlai delicacies, served in a manner befitting royalty.
	DURBAR THEME
	Guests with traditional "pagris" (turbans) and "chunnis" (scarves) are welcomed with a shower of rose petals and "attar" (perfume). Traditionally attired attendants serve a sumptuous meal in silver thalis on "bajots" (low tables) to guests seated on mattresses.
	VILLAGE FAIR THEME
	A village setting is created with bamboo huts, benches and stalls. Villagers mingle with guests and display their traditional skills such as doll making, puppet making, pottery, "pichwai" painting and other crafts. Entertainment includes a "bandarwala" staging a monkey show, a palmist, a snake charmer, "kachi-ghodi" & "dhamal" (a performance with a dummy horse, dancers and singers). After a splendid dinner, a fascinating display of fireworks brings a memorable evening to an end.
	CHOWK THEME
	Set in a "chowk" (street market) with all its colourful attractions. Street-side dishes are cooked in front of you. Discover "kadai" and "tawa khana" - hot tasty delicacies, snacks and Indian breads cooked on a griddle. For dessert, visit the "mithai-wala" (sweet-maket) and the "thela-wala" who tempts you with fresh fruits. There is a "paan" (betel leaf) shop which also sells "bidis" (freshly rolled Indian cigarettes). A "mehendi-wali" traces intricate designs with henna on the hands of the ladies. A bangle-seller offers a glittering array of glass bangles in vibrant hues.
	Wedding Themes Available at Agra
	MUGHAL THEME
	Go back to the historically fabled world of the great Mughals. "Chobedars" (gatekeepers) usher guests to the "daawat-khana" (dining room). Hostesses clad in silken, flowing "shararas" (skirts) and "chunnis" (veils) welcome the guests with flowers and "attar" (perfume) in the traditional style. Flamboyant folk dances herald a sumptuous spread of Mughlai delicacies, served in a manner befitting royalty.
	DURBAR THEME
	Guests with traditional "pagris" (turbans) and "chunnis" (scarves) are welcomed with a shower of rose petals and "attar" (perfume). Traditionally attired attendants serve a sumptuous meal in silver thalis on "bajots" (low tables) to guests seated on mattresses.
	A PICNIC TO REMEMBER
	This theme conjures up the spirit of a Mughal camp set up to celebrate a battle victory. On the lush green lawns of the Taj Khema, a tableland overlooking the famous Taj Mahal, colourful "khemas" (decorated tents) are set up. Guests are welcomed by soldiers attired in the costumes of the Mughal dynasty amidst fanfare that befits a victorious warrior. Relax on mattresses laid out on the lawns while Mughlai delicacies are served. Local artisans display their skill while musicians and dancers perform.
	VILLAGE FAIR THEME
	A village setting is created with bamboo huts, benches and stalls. Villagers mingle with guests and display their traditional skills such as doll making, puppet making, pottery, "pichwai" painting and other crafts. Entertainment includes a "bandarwala" staging a monkey show, a palmist, a snake charmer, "kachi-ghodi" & "dhamal" (a performance with a dummy horse, dancers and singers). After a splendid dinner, a fascinating display of fireworks brings a memorable evening to an end.
	CHOWK THEME
	Set in a "chowk" (street market) with all its colourful attractions. Street-side dishes are cooked in front of you. Discover "kadai" and "tawa khana" - hot tasty delicacies, snacks and Indian breads cooked on a griddle. For dessert, visit the "mithai-wala" (sweet-maker) and the "thela-wala" who tempts you with fresh fruits. There is a "paan" (betel leaf) shop which also sells "bidis" (freshly rolled Indian cigarettes). A "mehendi-wali" traces intricate designs with henna on the hands of the ladies. A bangle-seller offers a glittering array of glass bangles in vibrant hues.
	Wedding Themes Available at Jaipur
	MAHARAJAS WELCOME
	As was in the past, when the victorious Maharajas returned from war, a stunning tableau of decorated camels and elephants unfolds before you on the lawns of the palace/hotel. Ladies in Rajasthani costumes perform the traditional garlanding, "aarti" and "tikka" ceremonies while the music of the "shehnai" welcomes you. Afterwards relax with a welcome drink.
	GRAND ROYAL PROCESSION WELCOME
	This theme recreates the ambience of the welcome accorded to a victorious Rajput warrior. The entire drive-way to the palace/hotel is lined with caparisoned elephants & camels. Elephants with trunks raised in salute, accompany guests who are taken in royal carriages or on elephant back to the hotel. A band of musicians and horsemen precede the procession amidst a shower of rose petals. Valets drape each lady with a "duppata" (stole) and the gents are dressed up with "safas" (Rajasthani turbans). Guests are greeted with garlands and the "tikka" ceremony is performed. Afterwards relax to the music of the "shehnai" while you sip a welcome drink and enjoy Rajasthani folk dances.
	RAJPUT WEDDING
	A traditional Rajput wedding ceremony where the group members participate as the "baraat" (the bridegroom's family and friends who form the wedding party) and the bridal party. The baraat arrives with a local band, complete with "mashaals" (torches). The hosts (the bride's family) receive the baraat and the wedding ceremony is performed under a decorated "mandap" (pavilion). The "Meena Bazaar" (a colourful bazaar for the ladies) also forms an integral part of the setting. A festive buffet meal, laid out for both parties in the illuminated palace-hotel is accompanied by spirited "shehnai" music and folk dances. Also accompanying the ceremony is the traditional "mehendi" (henna) application for the ladies, which is considered auspicious at the time of an Indian wedding.
	BARADARI DINNER
	This gala is held on a cool, open terrace under a starlit sky. Earthen lamps and "mashaals" (torches) lend a rustic look to the terrace. Relax, as royalty would, on soft, satin mattresses with cushions and bolsters. Enjoy a superb Rajasthani sit-down "thali" (a traditional plate) meal while folk dancers perform for you.
	ELEPHANT POLO
	In the land of Maharajas & princes and palaces & forts, the game of elephant polo was one of the ultimate royal experience. Players are greeted at the palace's sprawling lawns by a royal military brass band. As in yesteryears, the arrival of the guests is accompanied by the beating of 'nagadas' (huge Indian drums) and a tableau of horses and camels, along with ladies attired in traditional costumes add to the royal welcome, before the start of the game. Folk artistes regale the audience with music and dance during the change-over. A sumptuous meal ends this majestic event.
	Wedding Themes Available at Udaipur
	MEWARI TERRACE DINNER
	On the Mewar terrace of the Lake Palace, a traditional vegetarian feast, culled from the robust cuisine of Mewar (a historic battleground of Rajasthan) is regally served to you. Available at: Udaipur
	THE LILY POND DINNER
	Under the stars beside the picturesque Lily Pond at the Lake Palace, a sumptuous buffet consisting of a variety of Chinese, Continental and Indian specialties (including fiery curries for the strong hearted) and desserts are served. Accompanying the meal are Indian classical music and folk dance performances.
	THE GANGAUR BOAT CRUISE
	The Gangaur boat is the antique royal barge of the house of Mewar. The barge is decorated in a regal way and lit up to resemble a fireball from a distance. The guests are taken around the mystical Lake Palace.
	THE LAKE PALACE EXTRAVAGANZA
	This theme is a combination of a royal welcome, a cruise with cocktails on the Gangaur boat and a dinner at the Lily Pond with a sitar player to set the mood. This is topped off with folk dances and a fireworks display.
	STREETS OF UDAIPUR
	On the terrace of the hotel, the city of Udaipur is recreated for you. Balloon shooters, an astrologer, a snake charmer are only some of the local attractions. Street-side stalls offering the choicest of Indian eateries adorn the venue.
	Wedding Themes Available at Mumbai
	MUMBAI SIDEWALK YATRA
	Go gallivanting into the mean streets of Mumbai. Try out every single offering the sidewalk promises. Gorge on the bhel, vada pav, Lucknowi Kebabs, North Indian Chaats, the 'anna's amalgamation' of all Indian cultures. Swerve with the crowds, buy bargains & boogie on the sidewalk. Try out the magazine stall, curio shops, and the 'phoren' goods store while taking a swig of our barman's delightful concoctions. All this without a speck of dirt on your shoes.
	BOLLYWOOD
	Lights, Camera, Action!! Guests in garish costumes, some posing as directors, some as action heroes, romantic leading ladies, ruffians, the list is endless... Make your way through the various sets of a typical film studio, from a palace to the village square. See men with cameras mounted on cranes shooting sequences, inviting you to live your dreams of becoming a film star. Continue your tour of Film City's electrifying ambience while dining on delicacies that are no less interesting than the 'masala' (spice) of Indian movies.
	Wedding Themes Available at Goa
	GOAN CARNIVAL THEME
	Join a traditional carnival, which is part of Goa's rich Portuguese heritage. Where revelry, song and dance, great food and good wine come together beautifully. Discover the joys of Goan cuisine at a delightful buffet dinner.
	GRAND CRUISE DINNER
	Enjoy a moonlit cruise on the River Mandovi under Goa's clear skies. Dine on local delicacies under the stars, while enjoying Goa music, enhanced by the sounds of the sea. A live band of local dancers can also be organized. Seafood Barbecue on the Beach Dine under a starlit sky on succulent lobsters, jumbo prawns and other local seafood delicacies which form part of a delightful barbecue set up on a lovely stretch of the Goan beach. Guests may also cook their own food on skewers over a campfire. A local musician captures the magic of the moment on his guitar strings.
	KUNBI FISHING VILLAGE
	Fishing villages are part of Goa's rich cultural heritage. A local Goan fishing village is created on the grounds of the hotel. This forms a perfect backdrop for a charming evening in a very rustic atmosphere. Artisans display their skills whilst the village dancers whirl to the music of a local band.
	Wedding Themes Available at Cochin
	MOONLIGHT BOAT CRUISE
	Guests are ferried aboard a spacious, specially decorated boat for a delightful moonlight cruise on the backwaters of Cochin. South Indian culinary surprises are served. A thrilling fireworks display on an island off the backwaters of Cochin concludes a wonderful evening.
	KERELA VILLAGE THEME
	Amongst country boats with fishing nets, the local toddy shop, fruit vendors and people working in paddy fields, we transport you to a traditional Kerala village. Dine on traditional cuisine served in clay pots, under thatched coconut leaf roofs. Hurricane lanterns and traditionally attired attendants add to the ambience.
	KERELA VILLAGE TOUR
	Ride through Kerala's heartland in wooden 'valloms' (boats) that glide effortlessly through the green waters. Leave the crowded cities behind as you move through Kerala's lush beauty and serenity and enjoy a packed lunch on board. Visit small islands along the way to glimpse traditional life in villages. Traditional fish farms, the famed Chinese nets, coconut groves and paddy fields are just a few of the sights you will see. Bird watchers will be entranced by the close look at Kingfishers, Cormorants, Woodpeckers and Kites.
	LOCAL MARTIAL ARTS PERFORMANCE
	The martial arts are believed to have originated in South India. "Kalaripayatu" is the local traditional martial arts form. Kalaripayatu derives its name from "Kalari" (gymnast) in which this martial arts form was first practiced. The performance will include various authentic forms of armed and unarmed combat. "Silambarn" is the ancient art of staff fencing. Most Silambarn martial art exponents were the bodyguards of the Tamil kings. Silambarn is now a refined art form of self-defense and physical exercise which makes for a brilliant spectacle.