Newar weddings are elaborate and culturally rich ceremonies that blend Hindu and Buddhist traditions, reflecting the Newar community's heritage. The process is filled with rituals, symbolism, and vibrant celebrations. Here are the key aspects and stages of a traditional Newar wedding:
Pre-Wedding Rituals
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Ihi (Bel Bibaha):
- This ritual, also known as Bel marriage, is performed for Newar girls before they reach puberty. In this ceremony, the girl is symbolically married to a Bel fruit (wood apple), which represents the god Vishnu. This ritual ensures that the girl remains married even if her future husband dies, as she is eternally married to Vishnu.
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Kanyadan (Giving Away the Bride):
- The bride's family officially gives her away to the groom. This involves the bride's parents washing the bride's feet, which symbolizes purity and blessing.
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Swayambar (Engagement):
- This is a formal engagement ceremony where the bride and groom exchange rings and gifts. It signifies their agreement to marry each other.
Wedding Day Rituals
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Janti Procession:
- The groom, dressed in traditional attire, arrives at the bride's house in a procession called "Janti." This procession is accompanied by family, friends, music, and dancing. The groom is often carried in a decorated palanquin.
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Welcoming the Groom:
- The bride's family welcomes the groom and his party with rituals, which may include washing the groom's feet and performing an aarti (a religious ceremony involving the waving of lighted lamps).
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Kanyadan and Saptapadi:
- The bride's parents perform the Kanyadan ceremony, giving their daughter to the groom. This is followed by the Saptapadi, where the bride and groom take seven steps together around a sacred fire, making vows to each other.
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Sindoor and Mangal Sutra:
- The groom applies sindoor (vermilion powder) on the bride's forehead and ties a mangal sutra (a sacred necklace) around her neck, symbolizing their marital bond.
Post-Wedding Rituals
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Reception (Bhoj):
- A grand reception is held, where both families and friends gather to celebrate the union of the couple. This event is marked by feasting, music, and dancing.
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Grihapravesh:
- The bride is welcomed into her new home by her in-laws in a ceremony that symbolizes her entry into a new phase of life. She performs rituals at the doorstep before entering the house.
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Mooh Dikhai:
- The bride is introduced to the groom’s extended family members, and she receives gifts as a token of welcome.
Traditional Attire
- Bride: The bride typically wears a red sari or a traditional Newar dress called "Haku Patasi." She is adorned with gold jewelry, including a large nose ring, earrings, necklaces, and a traditional headpiece.
- Groom: The groom wears a traditional outfit such as a Daura Suruwal or a Malla-era costume, often with a Nepali topi (cap) and a shawl.
Food and Music
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A Newar wedding feast includes a variety of traditional dishes, such as:
- Samay Baji: A platter with beaten rice, roasted meat, boiled egg, and various pickles.
- Yomari: Steamed dumplings made from rice flour filled with molasses and sesame seeds.
- Chatamari: A rice flour crepe often topped with minced meat and vegetables.
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Music and dance are integral parts of the celebration, with traditional Newar instruments like the Dhime (a type of drum) and Bhusya (cymbals) being played. The Janti procession and reception often feature traditional Newar songs and dances.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
- Newar weddings are deeply symbolic, with each ritual representing various aspects of life, spirituality, and community.
- The blend of Hindu and Buddhist practices in the ceremonies highlights the syncretic nature of Newar culture.
- The emphasis on family, community involvement, and the continuity of traditions underscores the importance of these ceremonies in maintaining cultural identity.
Newar weddings are not only a union of two individuals but also a celebration of heritage, family, and community, making them a vibrant and integral part of Newar culture.
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