What is Mubashra Ali Muhamashrana?

The tradition of tying the wedding knot in a temple has been going on since centuries. It is only natural that, as time flies, the custom has become more refined and elaborate. In fact, mubashra malik is considered to be the most beautiful memento one can carry home after the marriage. It is considered auspicious to gift this wedding gift to the bride and groom during their wedding ceremony in the presence of other family members.

Traditionally, the wedding ceremony began with a 'kada' or commencement of work. The groom would shave his head and tie a turban (churidar) around his neck. He then took the bride's hand and led her towards the 'sherai' or entrance of the marriage hall. The 'sherai' is the main hall where the 'Nishram' or the marriage vows are recited by the couple. The bride would repeat her vows several times in a particular sequence till she was satisfied and the 'Vad' or the marriage ceremony was over.

The 'mubashra ali mubashra' follows a traditional rhythm and style similar to that of the Indian Kathakali sequence. This is also accompanied by the traditional exchange of garlands and flowers to symbolize the union. The bride wore an 'Arogya' (robe) made of gold and adorned with precious stones like diamonds and rubies, while the groom wore a sari of the same material and dress.

During the wedding day, the mubashra is carried by both the bride and the groom, but the bride takes it step further and places it on the ground before starting off her first walk down the aisle. In India, this is considered as being auspicious as the mubashra is believed to protect the bride from falling. This act of placing the dais has also been symbolized to signify that the marriage is bound to last for a long time. After the ceremony, the mubashra is placed in the right corner of the home and a sign is put up saying 'Pindira Mahal' (Home of the Marriage).

The 'dais' symbolizing the marriage is decorated with embroidery and is a rich red color. The 'Rani' or the bride's 'pet' is adorned with ornamental ribbons, sequins and glitter. It is the duty of the 'Rani' to see that the dais is in perfect order. The bride then carries the dais to her newly wedded house and the dais is displayed on the wall of the reception hall.

It is believed that the mubashra is believed to bring prosperity into the marriage. If the groom and the bride get married on a Friday, the bride will carry the dais decorated with the flowers and pearls and will wear it on her head. This is an important ritual in Hindu marriages. The mubashra is also believed to prevent the evil eye to castigate the couple on their Wedding Day. Also on the wedding day, the mubashra is said to ward off any kind of sickness that may affect the marriage.

The wedding day itself is full of festivities and joys. As the bride walks towards the dais, the 'Magh Mela' or the white thread wrapped around the bride begins. The 'Ki Sewer', which is a colorful thread tied around the waist and starts from the navel to the top of the shoulder is used for the decoration of the dais. The 'Ki Sewer' also has a matching 'Laxmi Pooja' to make it look impressive.

After the 'Ki Sewer' the 'Magh Mela' follows. There are various 'Magh Morya' performed on the occasion of the wedding. The 'Vatika Mandir', the 'Choli Puja' and the 'Panchami Matrimonyi' are performed on the wedding day. The mubashraali and the wedding rituals are a living reminder of the rich culture and heritage of India