Post-Wedding Punjabi Rituals

In the Vidaai ceremony, the bride departs from her parental house and bids goodbye to her parents, friends and relatives. She throws puffed rice over her head. Thereafter, she boards a beautifully decorated car and heads her way towards her new home. Usually, the girl’s brother accompanies her.

After the marriage is over, the bride is welcomed at the groom’s house. On arrival, the bride is asked to wait outside the main door of the house. Then the mother-in-law puts sarson ka tel (mustard oil) on both the sides of the entrance door. Then, a traditional aarti of both the bride and the groom is performed. Thereafter, the newly wedded couple goes to the puja room and seeks the blessings of God.

Mooh Dikhai Ki Rasm

Mooh dikhai is the showing of bride to the groom’s family and relatives. Basically, it is a form of introduction. The mother-in-law gives her bride jewelry, cash and gifts. It is a ceremony to facilitate intimacy. The other relatives also give presents and cash to the bride.

To make the bride feel at home, the groom’s parents usually throw a reception party. It is an occasion, where the newly wedded couple is given a warm welcome by all. It does not have an ancient origin. Infact, it is a western concept that is gaining popularity in India too.

As a part of Phera Dalna ritual, the newly wedded couple visits the bride’s house on the next day after marriage. Usually, the girl’s brother comes to take them back to his home. The bride’s parents prepare a special lunch. Also, the newly weds are given lots of gifts and sweets.