Tag Archives: Matrimonial Sites

SIGNIFICANCE OF HAVAN/HOMA IN HINDU WEDDING RITUALS

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Hinduism comes with many age-old rituals and customs which our sages practiced. All these rituals came with logical reasoning. Over time though the rituals were followed per the scriptures, people forgot the significance behind them. In modern times, thanks to the spread of the internet and matrimonial websites, articles and blogs are being posted to re-educate people to the meaning behind every important Hindu matrimonial ritual. This article will help us understand the significance of ‘havan’ (also known as ‘homa’) in Hindu matrimonial rituals.

‘Havan’/’Homa’ is a sacrificial fire ritual. It is derived from the Sanskrit root ‘hu’; which means to consume. To Hindus, fire (Agni) symbolizes purity, as it consumes the old and paves the way for a new creation, as an interface between the material world and spiritual world. The ‘Havan’ is performed in a square-shaped ‘kunda’ or a bilaterally symmetrical alter, which is meant to combine the vertical element of fire with the horizontal elements of water and earth. The ‘kunda’ is usually made of copper/stone/brick, constructed specially for ‘havan’ and then deconstructed. The offerings made are symbolized as masculine and feminine; for example – ghee (symbolizing the masculine sperm) and the ladle from which it is poured is in shape of yoni (or primitive feminine symbol).

The Hindu matrimonial ceremony is one of the most sacred religious rites. During this ceremony, the ‘Vivaha Havan’ is performed to create an air of divinity and purity. Keeping Agni as the witness, the Indian Bride and Indian Groom exchange their sacred vows to each other, to the Gods and solemnize their matrimonial rituals. The Indian Bride and Indian Groom sit in front of the fire alter, facing the East while the priest sits North, facing South. The groom and the bride hold hands, make offerings into the sacrificial fire, chant the holy hymns, and take the symbolic seven steps (‘Sapta Padhi’) all around the ‘Vivaha Havan.’ The holy hymns or ‘Shlokas’ (as they are known), end with the uttering of the word ‘Swaha’; which means the sacrifice of ego to the fire. During ancient times, more elaborate sacrifices were made, but now we make ritualistic sacrifice/offerings such as curd, sugar, incense, herbs, milk, petals, grains, coconut, etc. Given the significance of the ‘Vivaha Havan’ in the Hindu matrimony, the offerings must be sacred and a logical purpose to explain their usage. Below is a list of some of the most commonly-used items and their purpose:

1) Ghee – meant to purify the sacrificial fumes; symbolizes burning of ego and purifying the heart;

2) Sandalwood/Camphor – meant to purify and perfume the sacrificial fumes; symbolizes burning of ego;

3) Mango leaves and twigs – Formic Aldehyde is released through the sacrificial fumes to kill bacteria in surrounding air; symbolizing purification;

4) Jaggery (Gur) – Formic Aldehyde is released through the sacrificial fumes to kill bacteria in surrounding air; symbolizing purification and sweetening the air;

5) Turmeric (Haldi) – Its antiseptic properties disinfects the air;

6) Dhoop (Incense Sticks) – to release sweet aroma into the air; symbolizing health and prosperity;

7) Gangajal (Water of Holy River Ganges) – water is spread around the ‘Havan Kund’ to purify the surroundings and to stop the fire from spreading.

8) Lamp (diya) represents the goddess Laxmi who blesses the couple with prosperity.

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What can you do to make your Mehendi day more interesting?

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Indian weddings are very elaborate, and the functions sometimes go on for close to a week. Mehendi is one such pre-wedding function, which is more related to the Indian bride, though in some families even the Indian groom is applied mehendi. As most mehendi functions are arranged at home, it is usually the duty of the hosts to keep their guests occupied and entertained before the wedding chaos begins.

Organizing a mehendi ceremony takes a lot of planning as it is not just limited to adorning one’s hands and feet, singing, dancing, and the food is also an essential part of the entire ceremony. To make it trendier and exciting, games and costumes are also made a part of the occasion. As this is a more relaxed function, and generally limited to the closest family members, you can make it interesting by planning some family favorites.

Arrange for an eating competition – Not just children even the elders would love to participate in it. Have an ice-cream or a rosogulla eating competition. You can give away gifts to the winners.

Antakshari Competition – Another family-oriented game. Make groups and play this old favorite. This is one game which attracts both the young and old alike. Wedding songs create the atmosphere for the occasion.

Hire musicians – A drum player can add a lot for such an occasion. The dancers in the family get to shake a leg, and it is also a prelude to the sangeet ceremony. It makes the event more traditional and enjoyable.

Set up a drink and ice-gola stand – Let your guests mix up crazy concoctions and enjoy ice-golas while they revive old memories. Wedding are the occasions which present a chance for all relatives to meet, and while everyone is catching-up let them enjoy some old favorites. Mehendi is the only wedding occasion which is more intimate, as it is limited to the family and some close friends.

Put up a Board or a Wall – all your guests can give you advice on how to conduct yourself after the wedding. It makes a pleasant memory of the special day of your life.

Photography Session – This is the ideal day to have a family photography session. Everyone wants to get their pictures taken with the relatives, and this is a perfect occasion. Arrange for some impressive backdrops, and if possible, ask the photographer to make instant prints and give it to your guests as souvenirs.

Arrange for a beautician – A small gesture for your guests which will make them remember your special day forever. Anyone wanting a quick hair, or a nail-job done, doesn’t have to run all the way to the nearest parlor.

Caricature and tattoo Artists – The kids will thank you for this gesture. Kids and adults alike love to get themselves sketched and inked.

Carrom and Chess competitions – So the men in the family don’t feel left out arrange for chess and carrom competitions. It will not only keep them entertained but will give them a chance to bond over a fun game.

These are some small tips and gestures which make not just your day special, but it will make your guests feel wanted and welcome.

To help organize a Mehendi Ceremony, you can also avail services from the experts. Some Matrimonial sites also offer such add-on services to its members or atleast they can offer multiple ideas to make the event a memorable one. Depending on the budget, matrimony sites offer package services though event management agencies.

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What to expect at your first matrimonial meeting with the bride/groom and family?

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Most of the Indian families are now relying on Matrimonial sites to find a life-partner for the eligible members of the family. Even would-be Indian Brides and Indian Grooms register themselves on the Matrimonial sites, who are crucial in bringing many couples and families together for a perfect union. These sites provide freedom to choose from some prospective interested brides and grooms.

But before such an event culminates in a successful  matrimonial relationship, there is a dreaded first meeting between the bride and groom along with the families. The first meeting is elemental in deciding whether to go forward with the relationship or to look at other prospects. In Indian communities, matrimonies are still arranged and finalized by the families of the bride and the groom.

Today, social media is the best way to get to know the background of any person before the actual meeting. Posts and friends convey a lot about a person. Do your bit of homework before you even take it to the next level of a personal meeting.

Unlike in the olden days, matrimony sites give the younger generation comprehensive background information of the prospective bride or groom. Usually, the ice gets broken by the series of general questions regarding – Job, family background, siblings, etc. the understanding between the couple is of utmost importance.

Meet in an informal setting-

It is always better to organize such meetings at a casual place where it is easier for both the families to talk and get to know each other. It is usually better to have such meetings at a neutral ground, such as a restaurant than at home. First-time meetings are an ice-breaker so keep it casual.

Let the conversation flow naturally-

Rather than making things too awkward and uncomfortable for both the parties, allow the discussion to take its course. Once both sets of families are relaxed and get to know each other, they will figure out a common interest which will take-out any awkwardness of the first meeting.

Insist on a personal talk-

It is always important to have a private conversation. It might feel bizarre to ask personal questions to a stranger, but it is your life, and you have absolute right to ask all the relevant questions before taking any decisions. Not all families agree on this matter as it is the first meeting, but there is no point to have a second meeting if you feel that this person is not for you.

Go with the gut-

Your instincts will never let you go wrong. Human instincts are the strongest when they meet anyone for the first time. And first impressions are always proved to be correct.

Find common interests-

Yes! It is also one of the most important things to find out in the first meeting. Opposites attract but only like-minded people can make their relationships work in the long run. Find out if you share common interests or hobbies, it will always add a new meaning to your relationship as you grow older.

In India, the matrimonial relationship is not limited to the couple but extends to the family as well. So, it is essential for both sets of families to be equally comfortable with each other

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What to Pack for Your Honeymoon?

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In the commotion of the wedding, we often overlook the need to be prepared for the first trip together. We may be completely absorbed in planning for our wedding, going through various matrimonial sites or related content. As a result, planning for a honeymoon might go on the backburner. And the result may be a haphazardly packed suitcase for your honeymoon. Yes, wedding needs and deserves all your time and effort, but the importance of a honeymoon is something that you must not overlook. It will be your first trip together, as a married couple, and you will be able to spend time together. It will also give you a much-needed break right after your wedding. For the Indian bride and groom, who hardly get a moment together alone, it will be the perfect time for you to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

And, we do not want you to miss the opportunity to make it special or to leave anything important behind. The following is a quick look at all that you need to carry along (or leave back).

Know What Is Suitable

One size does not fit all. What may be preferable for one destination may not work for another. So, do thorough research on your destination and then choose what you may want to carry along. Look for information on the expected temperature range, chances of rainfall, local sensitivities, and the likes. In case you have not yet prepared an itinerary, you should at least know the kinds of activities you might want to be a part of. And if you do, check for any specific clothing requirement. For example, for parasailing, you may want to keep a pair of shorts, or if you are the adventure type, then a hiking outfit should go in along with the other clothes as well.

Keep A Formal – Just in Case

Even if you love the idea of being casual in flip flops and walk-in quaint little towns, consider keeping a formal outfit, just in case. You never know when a chance for a formal dinner or a lunch might show up, and you would not want to be dressed in casuals. So, do keep at least one for that special meal!

For Your Feet

Leave some of your attention to the selection of your footwear too. Often, our clothes get all the attention while our feet get none. So, depending upon the kind of honeymoon destination you pick, select your shoes. No matter what you choose, your bag must always include one comfortable walking shoes and one formal pair of shoes (to go with that formal outfit).

Don’t Forget SOS

We do hope that all goes well and you never have the need to use medicines, but, it makes complete sense to keep some medicines for common ailments like fever, stomach infections, or anything that you may be prone to. You would not want to run around in a new place looking for medicines! So, include a just-in-case, medicines kit with your belongings as well.

Honeymoon can be the start of the memories of a lifetime that you will cherish all your life. So, spend a little time on planning for it and enjoy!

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5 Things About Marriage That You Didn’t Learn at School

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Your education might have prepared you for a lot of things that you may have to face in life from getting a job to building a career and even performing first aid, but what school cannot teach is the reality behind a  matrimony. You will never realize what marriage is unless you get into one, and by the time you realize it, it is probably too late. Well, fret not, because we have here for you some authentic facts about marriage. Try going through them before you start creating profiles on various matrimonial sites.

1.  Marriage is not about your happiness; it is about your partner’s as well.

The sooner you realize this fact, the better because the last thing you want to do in a marriage is to put yourself first. In a marriage, it should also be we, and never I, otherwise you may not call marriage a partnership at all. So, whatever you do, make sure that both you and your partner gain happiness because of your actions.

2. Love is not just a feeling; love is about commitment.

Once you are in a marriage, you should be in for the long haul. It may seem such an easy thing at the start of the marriage, but as time goes on you will come across situations that test your patience and commitment to your marriage. The key is not to give up because if you love your partner; you won’t.

3. “Opposites attract” may not turn out to be true after all

When you are going through the courtship phase, you may find yourself attracted to a person because they are the complete opposite of you, but once you get married to the person, the same reason you fell in love with the person for may turn out to be the reason for your marriage turning sour. Of course, that does not have to be the case if you and your partner learn to compromise and embrace each other for who you are.

4. It is okay to make mistakes, but making the same mistake twice is not acceptable.

It is second nature for any human being to mess up; no one can be perfect all the time. What matters is whether you learn from your mistakes or not, because if you don’t, the chances are that your spouse has had enough of your shenanigans. And that is a situation in which you do not want to be in ever.

5. Try what you may, you will never get to know your partner perfectly

This is especially true in the case of Indian Brides and Grooms as they normally do not get the chance to know their partner very well before they get married. It is impossible for one person to get to know every possible thing about another person. You are going to keep discovering new things about your partner every other day, for as long as you are together. So, just do not get surprised when something unexpected crops up, try to be calm and deal with the situation in a sensible manner.

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