The festivities usually conclude with a grand reception hosted by the groom’s family. Unlike the wedding ceremony, which is ritual-heavy, the reception is a formal party meant for socializing, eating, and introducing the couple as a married unit to the wider community.
This is a private, festive event for the bride and her female friends and family. Intricate henna patterns are applied to the bride’s hands and feet. Tradition says the darker the henna stain, the more the bride will be loved by her husband and mother-in-law.
While specific rituals depend on the religion (Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, etc.), the most common Hindu traditions include:
This is the formal announcement. Families exchange gifts, and the couple exchanges rings. In many cultures, this is followed by the Sangeet , a massive party where both families perform choreographed dances.