Traditional Ensembles at Weddings in Maharashtra

Indian weddings in general are grand affairs. Weddings in Maharashtra follow this overarching rule although they are different in the sense that even in the grandeur there is a sense of understated elegance and classiness. One of the characteristics of the Marathi culture is its blend of Aryan and Dravidian cultures, which is reflected in its wedding customs as well.

                                                            Courtsey : dreamstime.com

The joining of the bride and groom is not restricted to one day; rather it is spread over a number of days. The bride, on the day of her wedding, wears the traditional 9-yard saree known as the Paithani saree which is usually in a vibrant color, features finely embroidered traditional motifs and is made of Kanjivaram silk fabric. The drape of the saree is different from the conventional Nivi style as Marathis have a signature saree drape of their own. The hair is held up in a bun and is decorated with flowers. Accessories to the attire include heavy gold jewelry for the neck, wrists, ears, feet and toes; each of which have a special name in the local language. The nath or nose ring, that has a chain that is attached at the ears, is characteristic of the Marathi Wedding culture. In the Marathi culture, a fully decked up bride is believed to be an avatar of Goddess Parvati.

                                                        Courtsey : vivahphotos.com

The groom’s traditional attire consists of a white or off-white dhoti kurta, although in recent times men have begun opting for other light shades. A special ceremonial stole with a thin gold zari border is draped around the shoulders of the groom. The headgear consists of a simple Nehru cap.

Both men and women wear a simple headdress that is made of two strings of beads tied around the top of the head with two strings hanging on either side of the face with tassels at the end.