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Saddo
The Saddo celebration stands out as a cherished tradition within Goan wedding customs. It revolves around the cutting and preparing the fabric intended for crafting the bride's wedding gown, known as saddo. Typically hosted at the groom’s home, this occasion unites close family and friends in a joyous gathering that blends religious customs with communal unity. The fabric, often vibrant in shades of pink or red featuring floral patterns, is meticulously cut by a tailor specially commissioned for this purpose. Seated on a mat beside a statue of the infant Jesus, the tailor carries out the ceremonial cutting. The ceremony commences with a prayer called Noman, seeking blessings from God Almighty and invoking Mae de Deus intercession in certain regions such as Saligao. Following this is a Zot, a song performed by a skilled vocalist to set the spiritual and celebratory ambience for the event. Each relative, beginning with those closest to the bride, approaches the statue to offer a sum of money while others sing Zotis – symbolic verses reflecting on each person present. This moment brings together the community and family, celebrating the contributions and blessings of each member. Following prayers and offerings, guests are treated to refreshments. Sweet puddings are served in households, while Hindu families may offer betel nut wrapped in a leaf with lime. The atmosphere is lively, with elders enjoying beverages, children sipping on drinks, and sweets being shared among attendees. The funds collected during the event are handed over to the tailor along with his agreed-upon fee. The tailor will then use this fabric to create the bride's wedding gown, known as Saddo, and other outfits for close relatives, bridesmaids, and flower girls. These garments are later showcased at the bride's home for guests to admire before being sent to the groom's residence for a display before the wedding. The traditional red dress known as the saddo holds importance in Goan culture beyond just being worn for weddings. In Goan traditions, the colour red is a symbol of fortune, wealth and happiness. The Saddo is a gift given to the bride by her and the groom's families. Following the church wedding ceremony, the groom’s parents place the saddo on the bride’s shoulder to signify her welcome and inclusion into their family. During the day of festivities, the bride’s family presents her with a similar dress as a token of continued love and support from her original home. Another significant aspect of Goan weddings is the concept of a trousseau. This collection of items for the bride includes things she will use in her married life, symbolising her readiness for this new chapter. Along with items like garments, jewellery, and household goods, the trousseau often features Saddo, which reflects heritage and familial ties. The trousseau plays a role in welcoming the bride into married life, embodying the love, blessings and prosperity that accompany her journey.
Cultural Significance
The Saddo ceremony stands as a cherished tradition in Goan Catholic weddings that embodies cultural richness. From the cutting of the fabric to the prayers and blessings, every part of the event showcases the deep-rooted cultural traditions and sense of community in Goan society. The attire and accessories chosen by the bride and groom hold importance, reflecting the significance of the occasion, while the presence of loved ones adds to the festive and joyful ambiance.
Though certain aspects of the Saddo ceremony may have changed over time, its core essence remains unaltered. It serves as a tribute to the enduring value of heritage and emphasises the role of family and community in Goan weddings. The blend of tradition, style, and communal ties in the Saddo ceremony exemplifies the richness and complexity of Goan wedding customs.
Fashioning Tradition
The bride typically wears a traditional silk saree. These traditional sarees are crafted from materials like silk or brocade, and they are renowned for their exquisite texture and lustre. They are intricately embellished with zari work, where gold or silver threads are woven into the fabric to create patterns and designs. This adds a touch of grandeur to the bride's ensemble and makes her the centre of attention at the ceremony.
The groom typically sports a suit that combines elements of traditional and modern styles. Alternatively, he may choose a silk or cotton kurta paired with a dhoti or churidar.
The kurta is often decorated with embroidery or embellishments, bringing a festive charm to his attire.
Guests attending the Saddo ceremony also dress elegantly to mark the significance of the event. Women usually don sarees or salwar kameez in vibrant hues and intricate patterns. The sarees worn by guests may include Kanjeevaram, Banarasi, or Chiffon varieties, which are known for their distinct textures and designs. Men prefer kurtas or formal suits to capture the celebratory mood of the occasion.
Jewellery & Accessories
The bride usually adorns herself with Goan jewellery, showcasing a range of beautifully crafted pieces that celebrate her cultural background and enhance her beauty.
One of the jewellery items worn by the bride is the Pake, a classic Goan earring known for its elaborate design and grandeur. Another essential component is the Tode, gold bangles that are indispensable in Goan bridal adornments. These bangles are often heavy and intricately decorated, symbolising wealth and happiness in marriage.
A distinctive and significant piece is the Kasu Maala, a necklace comprised of gold coins linked together to represent prosperity and affluence. Additionally, the bride may adorn a Kudi, a nose ring that enhances her charm and elegance.
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