1. Mehendi Ceremony:- The Mehendi ceremony is a joyful pre-wedding function where henna is applied to the bride’s hands and feet in intricate designs. It symbolizes beauty, love, and good fortune. What Happens? The brides hands and feet are adorned with beautiful Mehendi patterns, often including the groom’s initials hidden within the design. Female relatives and friends also apply Mehendi to celebrate the occasion.Traditional Marathi folk songs are sung, and sometimes there is dhol (drumming) and dancing. 2. Gondhal Ceremony:Gondhal is a religious ceremony performed in honor of Goddess Bhavani, Tulja Bhavani, or Renuka Devi. It is usually conducted at night and is considered auspicious for blessings. What Happens? A Gondhal troupe (गोंधळी) performs devotional songs and narrates mythological stories of the Goddess. The main singer (गोंधळी) wears a sacred headgear and plays traditional instruments like the taal (cymbals) and dhola (drum).

Haldi Ceremony (हलद समारंभ) in a Marathi Wedding The Haldi ceremony is a significant and joyous pre-wedding ritual in Marathi culture. It is conducted separately at both the bride’s and groom’s homes, usually on the morning of the wedding or a day before. The ceremony is filled with fun, laughter, and vibrant traditions. --- Meaning & Significance The Haldi (turmeric) paste is considered auspicious and is believed to cleanse and purify the couple before their wedding. It is also said to bring a natural glow to the bride and groom’s skin. The ceremony wards off evil spirits and ensures a prosperous married life. Haldi is known for its cooling properties, helping to relax and refresh the couple before the big day. What Happens in the Haldi Ceremony? 1. Preparation of the Haldi Paste A mixture of turmeric (haldi), sandalwood, rose water, and sometimes milk or yogurt

2. Wedding Day Rituals ✅ Ganpati Puja (गणपती पूजन) – Worshipping Lord Ganesha for an obstacle-free wedding. ✅ Punyahavachan (पुण्याहवाचन) – Family elders bless the couple. ✅ Seemant Pujan (सीमांत पूजन) – The groom is welcomed by the bride’s family. ✅ Antarpat (अंतरपट) – A cloth is held between the bride and groom before they see each other. ✅ Mangalashtaka (मंगलाष्टक) – Sacred wedding mantras are chanted. ✅ Kanyadaan (कन्यादान) – The bride’s father gives her hand to the groom. ✅ Saptapadi (सप्तपदी) – The couple takes seven sacred steps around the fire. ✅ Mangalsutra & Sindoor (मंगलसूत्र व सिंदूर) – The groom ties the sacred necklace and applies sindoor. ✅ Laxmi Pujan (लक्ष्मी पूजन) – The bride is welcomed as Goddess Lakshmi in her new home.