Wedding Ceremony
The Samagri (materials) required for a Hindu wedding ceremony can vary slightly depending on regional traditions and the specific rituals, but generally, the following items are essential:
1. Mandap Decoration: Flowers (especially marigolds), banana leaves, coconuts, and mango leaves for decor.
2. Kalash (Sacred Pot): A brass or copper pot filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut placed on top.
3. Sindoor (Vermilion Powder): For the groom to apply on the bride’s forehead.
4. Mangal Sutra: A sacred necklace that the groom ties around the bride’s neck.
5. Rice and Grains: For offerings during various rituals.
6. Flowers and Garlands: For offerings and for the bride and groom to exchange.
7. Coconut: Symbolizing prosperity and used in various parts of the ceremony.
8. Ghee (Clarified Butter): For offerings into the sacred fire (Agni).
9. Sacred Fire Setup (Agni Kund): A metal or earthen pot where the fire is lit.
10. Sandalwood, Camphor, and Incense Sticks: For the sacred fire.
11. Betel Leaves and Areca Nuts: Used in puja offerings.
12. Kumkum (Red Powder) and Turmeric: For marking auspicious symbols and applying to the bride and groom.
13. Dry Fruits, Sweets, and Fruits: For offerings and distribution to guests.
14. Milk, Curd, Honey, and Sugar: For certain rituals like the ‘Panigrahan’ and ‘Havan.’
15. Puffed Rice (Lajhom): For the bride to offer into the sacred fire during the Phera ritual.
16. Coins or Money: Used for offering to the deities and during the "Kanyadaan" (giving away of the bride) ceremony.
17. Red Cloth or Sari: For the bride to wear during the ceremony.
18. Chunri (Decorative Scarf): Placed over the bride’s head.
19. Cotton Thread (Mouli): For tying around the hands of the couple during certain rituals.
Each of these items plays a crucial role in the various stages of a Hindu wedding ceremony. Let me know if you need more specific details or regional variations.
