Haldi

Haldi in Hindi means saffron. It is one of the most important ceremonies during a Hindu wedding and it happens the day before the actual wedding, in this case Saturday. All the married men and women in the room have to put saffron on the bride's face and body as a symbol of blessing. The groom can't be present during this ceremony, it is only the bride's family and guests who attend this one. After she is completely covered in saffron, no one can touch her until the next morning and she has to sleep in the dress she is wearing and on a mat; quite uncomfortable!

The food after Haldi was spectacular! Nine different kinds of curry were served on a banana leaf together with a couple of puris, which are a sort of crepes to eat with the curries. There is no cutlery, so you are supposed to mix everything with your hands. After you are done with the puris, they serve you white rice so you can mix it with the remaining curries and finish the meal. There are no napkins, so after you finish eating you have to make a line to wash your hands at a faucet. Amazing experience really!!

Before this ceremony, there is another ceremony called Tilak, where the bride's family and friends go to the groom's house to offer presents and give their blessings. This one I didn't go to.