Maratha weddings are known for their grace, heritage, and deep cultural significance. With a blend of centuries-old customs and heartfelt emotions, these ceremonies beautifully capture the essence of Maharashtrian tradition. In this article, we’ll explore the Traditional Wedding Customs Every Maratha Couple Should Know, giving soon-to-be brides and grooms a complete guide to rituals that honor their lineage and enrich their wedding journey.

Understanding the Essence of Maratha Weddings

Maratha weddings are grounded in simplicity, spirituality, and community involvement. Unlike extravagant ceremonies seen in other cultures, Maratha weddings focus on meaningful rituals passed down for generations. These traditions celebrate not just the union of two individuals but also the bonding of families and the blessings of elders.

Rooted in dharma, respect, and blessings, these customs create an atmosphere filled with warmth and spiritual energy. Every ritual, from the engagement to the final reception, is performed with devotion and symbolizes purity, prosperity, and new beginnings.

Pre-Wedding Rituals in Maratha Tradition

Pre-wedding rituals set the tone for the celebrations. They bring families together and create opportunities for bonding, blessings, and joy.

Lagnaach Yaadi (Matchmaking Process)

This traditional matchmaking system helps families find an ideal partner for their child. Horoscope matching, family discussions, and respectful meetings mark this beautiful phase. It ensures that the union is harmonious not just spiritually but also culturally.

Sakhar Puda Ceremony

One of the most important pre-wedding customs, Sakhar Puda symbolizes the official engagement. Here, the groom’s family gifts the bride sugar, sarees, and jewelry. The bride’s family similarly blesses the groom. The exchange signifies sweetness, unity, and acceptance.

Kelvan Ritual

A special pooja conducted at both families’ homes, Kelvan is performed to seek blessings from family deities. It is followed by a hearty feast, strengthening relationships before the big day.

Important Wedding-Day Ceremonies

The wedding day is filled with sacred chants, blessings, and heartwarming rituals that bring the couple together for life.

Ganpati Pujan and Devdevak

The day begins with prayers to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles. Families seek divine protection and blessings for a smooth, prosperous married life. Devdevak involves inviting family deities to bless the couple.

Antarpat Ritual

A decorated cloth called antarpat is held between the bride and groom, symbolizing purity and emotional protection. As soon as the Mangalashtak mantras begin, the cloth is lowered, marking the divine moment when the couple first sees each other during the wedding ceremony.

Mangalashtak Mantra Chanting

These sacred verses are chanted by priests, relatives, and guests. Each line brings blessings of happiness, unity, and peace. The rhythmic chanting creates a divine atmosphere.

Kanyadan and Lajja Hom

In Kanyadan, parents give their daughter to the groom with love and blessings. This emotional moment shows trust, respect, and the merging of two families. Lajja Hom follows, where the bride offers puffed rice into the fire, symbolizing dedication and support to the new household.

Unique Maratha Groom Traditions

Seemant Pujan

This custom involves the bride’s family welcoming the groom with gifts, garlands, and respect. The ritual honors him as the one who will cherish and protect their daughter.

Sankalp and Saptapadi

The couple takes a solemn vow (sankalp) to build a life together. Saptapadi, or the seven sacred steps, marks the core of their marital bond. Each step represents a promise—food, strength, prosperity, love, family, spiritual growth, and companionship.

Post-Wedding Rituals

Grihapravesh

Once the bride reaches her new home, a welcoming pooja ensures prosperity and harmony. She gently kicks a pot of rice, symbolizing abundance entering the household.

Varat and Reception

Varat is the ceremonial procession as the bride leaves with the groom. The reception that follows is a joyous celebration filled with blessings, music, and delicious Maharashtrian cuisine.

Modern Touches in Maratha Weddings

While traditions remain at the heart of Maratha weddings, modern couples often blend them with contemporary choices—designer attire, themed décor, and digital invitations. However, the essence of the rituals continues to shine, honoring cultural roots while embracing the present.

FAQs About Maratha Wedding Customs

1. Why is the Sakhar Puda ceremony important?

It symbolizes the official engagement and acceptance of the bride and groom by both families.

2. What does the Antarpat cloth represent?

It represents purity and prevents the couple from seeing each other until the sacred mantras begin.

3. What are the seven vows in Maratha weddings?

They include promises of nourishment, strength, prosperity, family, respect, spiritual balance, and companionship.

4. Why is Ganpati Pujan performed first?

To invoke Lord Ganesh’s blessings and ensure the ceremony proceeds without obstacles.

5. Is Kelvan only a pooja?

No, it includes a pooja followed by a traditional meal shared with close family members.

6. Can Maratha weddings be customized?

Yes, while keeping core rituals intact, many couples personalize attire, décor, and celebrations.

Conclusion

Maratha wedding customs beautifully blend spirituality, culture, and family values. Understanding these Traditional Wedding Customs Every Maratha Couple Should Know helps couples appreciate their heritage and enjoy each step of their journey. Whether you're planning your wedding or learning about cultural traditions, these rituals reflect love, respect, and togetherness values that truly make a marriage meaningful.