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Haldi
The Haldi ceremony in Uttarakhand is a cherished pre-wedding ritual with deep spiritual and social significance. Known as Ubtan Laguna, it is observed by all communities across the plains and hills. Traditionally held separately in the bride and groom's homes, many families today opt for a joint Haldi celebration in a scenic outdoor venue adorned in the yellow and orange hues of turmeric. The ceremony usually takes place in the morning, before the Mehendi ceremony. Turmeric paste, made from a blend of turmeric, sandalwood powder, rose water, and sometimes other ingredients like gram flour, curd, or mustard oil, is applied to the bride's and groom's faces, arms, and legs. Usually dressed in yellow, the bride and groom sit on small stools under a Pichhora held by four female relatives. Their mothers apply the Haldi paste, starting from the feet to the knees, arms, and face. Family members and guests follow, blessing the couple for a long and happy married life. The ceremony often turns playful, with participants smearing Haldi on each other. The event is filled with traditional songs and dancing, creating a joyous atmosphere. After the Haldi, the bride's father ties a Kankan, a bracelet containing turmeric, coins, and other items, on the bride’s and groom’s wrists, to be removed four days after the wedding.
Cultural Significance
In Hindu culture, turmeric's yellow symbolises prosperity, fertility, and blessings. It represents abundance and new beginnings, making it an auspicious wedding colour. According to Vedic texts, turmeric (haldi) purifies the mind, body, and soul, preparing the bride and groom for holy matrimony. The Haldi ceremony was traditionally held early on the wedding day at the couple's homes. Today, it’s often celebrated a day earlier, after which the bride and groom are kept apart until the wedding.
Beyond its spiritual significance, turmeric is known for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Its antioxidant, curcumin, helps reduce pre-wedding nerves, and as a natural exfoliant, it gives the couple’s skin a radiant glow. In Uttarakhand weddings, the Haldi ceremony honours age-old traditions and strengthens familial bonds, offering a joyful time for socialising with the community.
Fashioning Tradition
For the Haldi ceremony, the bride mostly wears a traditional yellow-coloured outfit. It can be a cotton Garhwali ghagri-choli, a Kumaoni cholo or a classic yellow saree with zari work. The bride may also opt for a salwar suit with Gotta-Patti embroidery or an embellished ethnic long dress. While yellow is the traditional colour, new-age brides may opt for orange, pink, and gold outfits.
The groom is also dressed in traditional attire for the ceremony. He typically wears a plain white or yellow kurta with an off-white pyjama or churidar. Sometimes, the groom might wear a conventional dhoti with a kurta. If it is a joint Haldi function, the bride and groom choose outfits that complement one another.
Jewellery & Accessories
Since turmeric paste is applied on the face, hands, and legs at a Haldi ceremony, most brides and grooms avoid heavy gold jewellery. New-age brides opt for exquisite floral jewellery made from fabric, paper, or fresh flowers. The floral necklace, earrings, ring, maangtikka, and bracelet add a touch of nature’s beauty to the ethnic look. On the other hand, the groom typically wears minimal to nil jewellery. Some grooms may wear a gold Kada, chain, ring, and watch. Today, some grooms opt for a floral mala and bracelet to complement the bride’s Haldi look.
Image Credits
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