Ankit & Akshata's wedding
Day 1
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Bandhawgarh
India
Day 2
Friday, May 30, 2025
Bandhawgarh
India
About the hosts
Ankit & Akshata's story
I and Ankit were best friends for the last 5 years. We both are birthday twins. So on 24 Nov 2023, something sparkled between both of us. He is 8 years older than me, so he was looking for something serious and wants to get settled. I was not ready then. But his love and care for me led to a decision that I could not spend a day with him, and on 3 Dec 2024, we made it official! Although it took almost a year, we took our time and lots of trips in between.! The twist is that our family is unaware of this because we are both from traditional Marwardi families, and the marriage is arranged for them.
Day 1Thursday, May 1, 2025Bandhawgarh
Starting time (approximately): 11:30 AM
Venue and host contact details will be disclosed upon booking.
Engagement
The engagement ceremony, known as "Sagai," is a significant event in a Marwari wedding. It typically involves the families of both the bride and groom coming together to exchange gifts and blessings. The groom's family presents jewelry and gifts to the bride, symbolizing their acceptance of her into their family. Traditional rituals, such as the tying of the "mangalsutra," take place, signifying the couple's commitment to each other. The event is filled with joyous music, dance, and festive decorations, creating a vibrant atmosphere that sets the tone for the upcoming wedding.
The weeding
The "Phera" ceremony occurs during the wedding day, where the couple takes seven circular walks around the sacred fire, known as "Agni." Each round represents a specific vow, focusing on various aspects, including love, respect, and companionship. This ritual is deeply spiritual and symbolizes the couple's commitment to support and cherish one another throughout their lives. Family and friends gather around, showering the couple with blessings and rice, enhancing the emotional significance of the event. The Phera solidifies their bond and marks the beginning of their new life together.
Reception
The reception is a grand celebration that follows the wedding ceremony, often held at a lavish venue filled with elaborate decorations. It serves as a platform for the families to introduce the newlyweds to their friends and relatives. The event typically features a feast of traditional Marwari delicacies, along with music and dance performances. Guests are greeted warmly, and the atmosphere is filled with laughter and joy. Speeches, toasts, and blessings for the couple are common, creating an unforgettable experience that celebrates love, union, and community.
Day 2Friday, May 30, 2025Bandhawgarh
Starting time (approximately): 10:00 AM
Venue and host contact details will be disclosed upon booking.
Haldi
The Haldi ceremony is a vibrant and joyous pre-wedding ritual in Indian Marwari weddings. Typically held a day or two before the wedding, it involves applying a paste of turmeric, sandalwood, and other natural ingredients to the bride and groom. This is done to bless them and enhance their beauty for the big day. Family and friends gather to sing traditional songs, dance, and celebrate, often wearing bright yellow attire to symbolize the color of turmeric. Laughter fills the air as playful smearing of the haldi paste occurs, creating a fun and festive atmosphere.
Mehndi
The Mehndi ceremony follows, where intricate henna designs are applied to the bride’s hands and feet. This event is filled with creativity and artistry, as skilled mehndi artists create stunning patterns that symbolize love and joy. The bride's female relatives and friends often join in the fun, getting their own henna designs. Traditional music and dance performances accompany this celebration, enhancing the festive mood. The darker the henna stain, the more the bride is loved, making this a meaningful and cherished occasion.
Sangeet
The Sangeet night is a lively musical celebration where both families come together to perform songs and dances. This event is characterized by a vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter, music, and dance. Performances range from traditional folk dances to modern choreography, showcasing the talents of family members and friends. The night creates a sense of unity and joy, setting a celebratory tone for the wedding ahead. As the festivities continue, the bond between families strengthens, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey.
