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Tilak Ceremony
Among the many rituals that mark the beginning of a wedding in Rajasthan, the Tilak ceremony holds particular importance. Also known as Shagun, it is the formal acceptance of the groom by the bride’s family. A central figure in the Tilak ceremony is the bride’s brother, who goes to the groom’s house to perform the tilak. This gesture is not just symbolic but reinforces the deep-rooted family values in Rajasthani culture, where the brother acts as a bridge between the two families. At the groom’s house, the bride’s brother applies tilak – a vermilion or sandalwood mark – on the groom’s forehead. But the Tilak ceremony isn’t just about rituals; it’s also a display of familial affection through the exchange of gifts. The bride’s family presents the groom with tokens of respect, including clothes, sweets, fruits, and other symbolic items. Sometimes, more luxurious gifts such as jewellery or even a sword (an emblem of the warrior heritage in Rajasthan) are given to the groom. The groom’s family, in turn, offers gifts to the bride’s brother as a gesture of goodwill. These exchanges foster a bond between the two families, ensuring that the wedding celebrations begin on a note of mutual respect and understanding.
Cultural Significance
The Tilak ceremony carries deep-rooted cultural significance in Rajasthani weddings. It marks the official engagement between the two families and is one of the most important milestones before the actual wedding day.
In Rajasthan, the ceremony is particularly significant as it emphasises familial approval and reinforces the bond between the two families. Unlike modern weddings, which often focus on the couple themselves, Rajasthani weddings – especially through the Tilak ceremony – highlight the role of family.
Fashioning Tradition
For the Tilak ceremony, the groom typically dons a sherwani or bandhgala, reflecting the regal Rajputana style that Rajasthan is famous for. These garments, often made of rich silks or velvet, are embroidered with intricate patterns and gold or silver threadwork.
Zardozi embroidery is a popular choice, with motifs that reflect Rajasthan’s royal heritage. The groom’s attire often comes in colours such as deep maroon, royal blue, or rich gold, symbolising nobility and valour.
Jewellery & Accessories
In the Tilak ceremony, the groom is often presented with kalgi (a jewel-studded brooch worn on the turban) or a traditional sarpech (a crown-like ornament). Some grooms also wear neckpieces made of pearls or gold, adding a touch of opulence to their outfits. These pieces, while simple, echo the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal past and are often passed down through generations, making them an heirloom of sorts.
Image Credits
Wedding Wire | Avio Club | 1plus1studio | Shuttershock | Utsavpedia | Big Fat Wedding | Shri Rajput | Reproblas | Dreamstime | Indian Weddings | Intact Archive | Bollywood Shadis | Pinterest