The Art of the Indian Haldi Ceremony
The Haldi ceremony is a ritual holy bath which is one of the pre-wedding ceremonies in India. In Indian culture, turmeric holds a special place of honor. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and other healing properties and as such is considered a popular medicine. But where it holds a sacred place is in Indian weddings. Turmeric (haldi), oil and water are blended into a paste and then applied to both the bride and groom’s body on the morning of the wedding day. In a few cultures, this ceremony is also held a day before the wedding, after the mehendi ritual. It is known by different names in different regions, like ubtan, mandha, tel baan, etc. The mixture is believed to bless the couple before the wedding.
Auspicious Tumeric
- Turmeric is considered extremely auspicious for Hindu rituals. As it signifies purity, fertility and good health and prosperity.
- It creates protection from the evil eye and wards off evil spirits.
- Turmeric is extremely good for the skin. It gives the skin a healthy glow and removes dead skin from the skin . A good natural scrub.
- In many cultures including Indian culture, the bride and groom wear yellow clothes on their wedding day.
This paste is then applied to the bride and the groom’s face, neck, hands and feet, by their closest friends and family. These paintings reflect this beautiful ceremony.
