Weddings in Bihar and Jharkhand, like most Indian weddings, go beyond the union of two individuals. They embody the coming together of two families celebrating the union. Thus, every ritual performed at a Bihar and Jharkhand wedding carries deep cultural significance. Each ritual is designed with a definite purpose backed by many traditions passed down from Vedic times. For instance, the first pre-wedding ritual, the Satya Narayan Katha, is performed to invoke the blessings of Lord Vishnu, ensuring the marriage proceeds without obstacles. 

Also, while the yellow colour of the Haldi denotes prosperity, it is believed to purify and bless the couple and protect them against evil. The colour of the Mehendi too carries deep cultural significance. It is said that the darker the Mehendi on the bride's hands, the stronger the love and marriage.

The most sacred wedding day function, the Saat Pheras, holds deep cultural significance. The Agni (burning fire) symbolizes transformation and purification, while, each Phera signifies a vow that the couple makes to each other, from sharing responsibilities to togetherness, loyalty, respect, progeny, health, and love.

For centuries, wedding attire in Bihar was traditional and simple but Bollywood has added a contemporary edge to the traditional style. Designer wedding sarees have caught on in Bihar. Also, many young Bihari brides are using the service of professionals to drape the saree in a more contemporary style. Bollywood has even inspired brides to experiment with colors beyond yellow, red, and maroon. Designer sarees are available in pastels, pinks, oranges, off-whites, unconventional hues of metallic shades and dual tones, adding a modern twist to traditional styles. For the Haldi and Mehendi ceremony sarees have paved the way for lehengas and indo-western gowns. Similarly, bridal make-up and hairstyling, too, has reached an altogether new level. Professional make-up artists charge thousands of rupees to create picture-perfect brides with flawless skin, smoky eyes, bold lips, and intricate hairstyles with flowers and hair accessories.

The Bihari groom’s attire is not too far from his bride’s. It is as regal and rich as the bride’s attire. A perfectly matching couple reflects their joint efforts to coordinate every outfit. Also, it looks well-balanced in the photos and videos. From the typical dhoti kurta modern-day grooms influenced by Bollywood are wearing embroidered Sherwanis with Mukuts (turbans), Sehras (beaded veil) and Kalgis (turban jewel) for the pheras and Indo-Western fusion wear for their Haldi and Mehendi ceremony. Also, male grooming and make-up have grown exponentially in Bihar’s matrimony market.

These days, fashion styling for a Bihari bride and groom even depends on the destination and theme of the marriage. For instance, if four days of wedding ceremonies are to be held in a hotel in Lake Como or the Amalfi Coast, the bride and groom would incorporate attire that fits the chosen scenic location. Also, the theme choice and its colours can influence the couple’s attire. Finally, it is all about creating the right balance between traditional elements and contemporary styles.