This tradition of hill weddings is not only beautiful but also very sacred. know how

The traditions in the hill weddings of Uttarakhand are not just rituals but a beautiful confluence of culture and faith. In these traditions, the ‘mukut’ worn by the bride and groom holds special significance. This crown is not an ordinary ornament but is considered a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity and divinity. When this crown is worn on the bride and groom at the beginning of the marriage, it is believed that they are performing the rites of marriage in a godlike form.

This traditional crown of Uttarakhand is made of paper, cardboard, golden-white shimmering cloth, colorful flowers, pearls, Kalash, coconut and symbols of gods and goddesses. Many times a picture of Lord Ganesha or Shiva-Parvati is also placed in it, so that the marriage is auspicious. The shape of a Kalash is made in the upper part of the crown, which is a sign of prosperity and the beginning of new life.

In Pahari weddings, the crown is considered not just a decoration but a symbol of blessings. It is believed that crowning the bride and groom brings blessings of Lord Shiva, Mother Parvati and local deities. This crown gives the message of happiness, love, respect and stability in their married life. The coconut and rice in this crown are symbols of auspiciousness and purity.

The crown is worn at the beginning of the wedding when the bride and groom reach the mandap for the first time. This crown is worn till the main rituals of marriage. After seven rounds, varmala and vermilion, when the bride and groom tie the knot, it is taken out amidst traditional songs. Removing the crown means that the divine marriage has been completed and now the couple will start normal married life.

A glimpse of the culture and folk art of Uttarakhand is clearly visible in this crown. It often includes colorful flowers, thin sticks of ringal, traditional red-white thread and Pahari designs. In many places, women make this crown with their own hands. ‘Aipan’ art designs are also made in this crown which is a symbol of auspicious message and traditional beauty.

The ceremony of wearing the crown is considered important not only from the religious point of view but also from the social point of view. It is a tradition of the society to give respect and good wishes to the newly married couple. When the bride and groom come wearing crowns, they are considered as gods. The elderly women of the village bless them by singing traditional Mangal songs.

The echo of folk songs during the crowning ceremony in hill weddings makes the atmosphere even more sacred. Women sing traditional songs to the tunes of ‘Mangal’, ‘Turaili’ and ‘Dhol Damaun’. These songs include invocation of the gods, praise of the bride and groom and best wishes for a new life. The songs sung at the time of crowning further deepen the sanctity of the marriage.