The Haldi ceremony holds immense cultural significance in Chhattisgarh weddings, serving multiple purposes. Turmeric, with its medicinal properties, acts as a natural antiseptic and healing agent.

Additionally, the yellow colour of turmeric symbolises prosperity, happiness, and fertility in Hindu culture. It is a colour often associated with sanctity and divine blessings, which is why it plays such a prominent role in various wedding rituals. 

The Haldi ceremony also acts as a protective ritual. In some Chhattisgarh communities, it is believed that applying turmeric shields the couple from the evil eye before the wedding. It is customary for the bride and groom to stay indoors after the Haldi ceremony until the actual wedding.

The bride’s attire during the Haldi ceremony is often a simple yet elegant yellow saree or lehenga, reflecting the colour of turmeric and the auspiciousness of the ritual. The saree worn is usually a lightweight fabric like cotton or silk, allowing the bride to move comfortably while also absorbing the Haldi paste. 

In some regions of Chhattisgarh, the bride may also wear a traditional tribal saree, which features bold patterns and earthy tones, adding a local flair to the ceremony.

The groom’s outfit during the Haldi ceremony is similarly symbolic. He typically wears a kurta-pajama or dhoti in shades of white or yellow. The simplicity of his attire mirrors the bride’s, with a focus on comfort and tradition.