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Ghar Atchum

Ghar Atchum

The Ghar Atchum is a reception that takes place after the main wedding ceremony, often at the groom’s home. While it may appear to be a grand celebration on the surface, this ritual holds deep cultural meaning in Kashmiri society. It signifies the official welcoming of the bride into her new family, often referred to as her “new home.” After the wedding ceremony, the bride makes her way to the groom’s house. Traditionally, this procession is marked by emotional farewells as the bride leaves her parents' home. Upon arriving at her new home, she is greeted by her mother-in-law and other female members of the groom’s family, who welcome her with rituals that blend love, joy, and reverence. One of the key elements of Ghar Atchum is the ritualistic act of the bride entering her new home for the first time. As she crosses the threshold, she may be asked to overturn a small pot of rice or step into a thali filled with vermillion-tinted water.

Cultural Significance

The Ghar Atchum ceremony holds a dual significance in Kashmiri wedding culture. On a personal level, it marks the bride’s official entry into her new family. This is the moment where the bride symbolically crosses the boundary from her old life into a new one, full of fresh roles, responsibilities, and relationships.

On a broader cultural level, Ghar Atchum reinforces the importance of familial bonds and community. 

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Fashioning Tradition

The bride’s outfit during the Ghar Atchum ceremony is typically a continuation of the grandeur seen during the wedding itself, with an added emphasis on vibrant colours and intricate details. One of the most common garments worn by Kashmiri brides is the Pheran, a long, loose gown that is often made from rich fabrics such as silk or brocade. The Pheran is heavily embroidered with gold or silver thread, especially around the neck, sleeves, and hem.

Another essential element of the bride’s attire is the headgear. Brides usually wear a veil or headscarf, which may be adorned with traditional Kashmiri embroidery known as sozni

The colour of the bride's clothing is also significant. Red is a traditional choice for Kashmiri brides, symbolising love, passion, and new beginnings. However, in modern weddings, brides also opt for a range of colours, from deep maroons and rich greens to elegant pastels, depending on personal preferences.

For the groom, the Ghar Atchum ceremony is an opportunity to showcase traditional Kashmiri fashion with a hint of royal elegance. The groom often wears a Pheran similar to the bride’s but in more muted tones, such as deep blues, maroons, or gold. The groom's Pheran is often embellished with elaborate embroidery and is paired with a karakul (a traditional Kashmiri cap) to signify authority and nobility.

Jewellery & Accessories

One of the most important pieces of jewellery worn by a Kashmiri bride is the Dejhoor, an earring that is passed down through generations. The Dejhoor is more than just a piece of jewellery; it is a symbol of marriage, akin to the mangalsutra in other parts of India. 

Image Credits

Shadiwish | Wedding Wire | Kashmir Life | Wedding Bazaar | Medium | Pinterest | Quora | Namrata Wakhloo