Gujarati weddings share the broad Hindu structure but have their own distinctive, often playful rituals and vocabulary. Here is a plain-English glossary of common Gujarati wedding terms you will encounter in the GTA.
The jaan is the groom's wedding procession arriving at the venue, where the bride's family welcomes him. It is the Gujarati counterpart to the baraat and kicks off the wedding-day celebrations.
Ponkvu is the welcome ritual where the bride's mother greets and "aartis" the groom at the entrance — famously including a light-hearted attempt to grab the groom's nose, a reminder of humility as he comes to marry. It is one of the most fun, photographed Gujarati moments.
Hasta milap ("union of hands") is the tying together of the couple — the bride's sari end to the groom's scarf — symbolizing their bond. It often precedes the circling of the sacred fire.
The mangal phera are the four circuits the couple takes around the sacred fire (each representing dharma, artha, kama, moksha); the saptapadi are the seven steps/vows. Together they solemnize the marriage, as in the wider Hindu tradition.
The Big Bang Events helps you find GTA vendors who understand Gujarati wedding traditions — mandap decor, pandits, and vegetarian/Jain-friendly caterers.
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