Groom - All about the to-be-groom
The Indian groom or Dulha, particularly in north Indian weddings, has different names in other regions and cultures of India. In southern cultures of India, like Tamil, the groom is known as Mapillai; in Telugu, he is called Varudu; and in Malayali, he is known as Manavalan. He is called Dora in Assamese weddings and Bor in Bengali traditions in the east. In the west of India, the groom is known as Vararaja in Gujarati and Vadhu in Marathi.
Traditionally in Hindu weddings, there aren't any groomsmen around the groom. Although in Christian weddings in India, a group of groomsmen stands beside the groom throughout the wedding ceremony.
What is the role of the groom in wedding ceremonies?
At a wedding, the bride and groom are considered to be the show's stars, and their role is crucial in all the wedding rituals. The groom is believed to be Lord Vishnu's avatar, and several rituals and customs are dedicated to him. The groom vows to take care of his bride and takes the role of protector. Even while taking the seven pheras or rounds around the holy fire, the groom promises to love, cherish, honour, and respect her.
Here are some of the acts performed by the groom in a classic Indian wedding:
Tying of the Mangalsutra
The groom is the one who ties the Mangalsutra, or a black bead necklace, around his wedded wife's neck. He also applies sindoor or vermillion to the hair parting of the bride, and this is the symbol of her marriage. It is said that after the groom ties the Mangalsutra, the couple's bond strengthens, and they form an eternal connection.
Applying Sindoor or Vermillion
He also applies sindoor or vermillion to the hair parting of the bride, and this is the symbol of her marriage. In some cultures, it is considered that if the sindoor that the groom is applying to his wife falls on her nose, he will love her endlessly and in every lifetime.