Miami, FL
May 28, 29, 30

Sophia and Navin was a beautiful traditional Hindu wedding. The Hindus attach a lot of importance to marriages and the ceremonies are very colorful and extend for several days. There are many rituals preformed through the weekend celebration. It was a pleasure for us to be a part of the exciting festivities.

“Naychoo (The Welcoming)”

Sophia enters the Mandap for the first time along with her mother who is seated behind her. Her Mamoo (maternal uncle) then passes a mango leaf over both of their heads and then Sophia is instructed to bite the leaf. The leaf is then passed to her mother along with water which she sips.

“Var Parsh Swagat/Parchan”
Sophia’s father welcomes Navin’s father along with the Baraat. Prayers are being chanted by the Pandit and the fathers embrace eachother. Sophia’s mother along with the ladies of the family welcome Navin by showering him with tiny dough balls and waving a lighted Thaali around his head.

“Jaanwaas”

Navin along with the Baraat are escorted to the rest with music and dancing.

Sophia enters the Mandap.

“Laja- Ahuti”

Sophia’s brother places parched rice into Sophia and Navin’s hands. Sophia is the first to be served and then Navin, which is then offered to the fire as mantras are chanted for prosperity and fertility.

“Silaarohan Vidhi – Sila means rock.”

Sophia places her foot onto a rock showing she is firm in her devotion to her husband.

“Shanti Path – This mantra is recited at the end of the ceremony for perfect peace and tranquility to reign throughout the universe.”

Sophia and Navin are showered with rice and petals.

A ceremonial necklace is placed in the Ocean by Sophia in remembrance of her late father.

“Viddai (Bride’s Departure)- The bride’s family and friends bid her farewell as she leaves her parents’ home to build a life with her husband and his family.”

Sophia is greeted by Navin’s mom outside his home.