Vivah Sanskar is the 13th out of 16 sacraments of the Hindu religion. Hindu sanskars talk about life’s journey towards God, and in that, Vivah stands for the union of two people for the beginning of their karmic life together.

Vivah Sanskar is one of the key sanskaras out of sixteen sacraments of the Hindu religion. Hindu sanskaras talk about life’s journey towards God, and in that, Vivah stands for the union of two people for the beginning of their karmic life together.

Vivah Sanskar, or the Hindu marriage ceremony, is one of the most important and elaborate rituals among the sixteen sacraments (Sanskars) in Hinduism. These sacraments mark key stages in an individual’s life, from birth to death, and Vivah Sanskar celebrates the transition into married life, symbolizing the union of two individuals not just physically, but also spiritually and emotionally.

Marriage is the most important step of life, and every culture has its own views on it. As per Hindu religion, Vivah ties two families together for their social and personal well-being. It is a grand ceremony that can last for few days as it involves series of rituals.

Significance of Vivah Sanskar:

1. Sacred Bond:
   • Marriage in Hinduism is considered a sacred and lifelong bond between husband and wife. It is a commitment to Dharm (duty), Artha (prosperity), Kama (love), and Moksh (spiritual liberation). The couple vows to support each other in fulfilling these life goals.
2. Spiritual Union:
   • The union of husband and wife is not only at a worldly level but is also a spiritual merger of two souls. It is believed that marriage binds the couple for this life and the next, ensuring mutual support in their spiritual journey.
3. Progeny and Continuation of Family Lineage:
   • One of the primary purposes of marriage is the continuation of the family line through progeny. Children born out of wedlock are seen as fulfilling the couple’s Pitri Rina (debt to ancestors) and helping them attain spiritual liberation.
4. Social Responsibility:
   • Marriage also represents the couple’s entry into Grihastha Ashrama, the second stage of life according to Hindu philosophy. In this stage, the couple takes on the responsibilities of managing the household, raising children, and contributing to society through charity and righteous living.

Key Rituals in Vivah Sanskar:

1. Ganesh Puja:
   • The ceremony begins with prayers to Lord Ganesh, the remover of obstacles. Both the bride and groom’s families seek his blessings for a smooth and auspicious start to the marriage.
2. Kanyadaan (Giving Away of the Bride):
   • The bride’s parents perform the Kanyadaan, where they give their daughter’s hand in marriage to the groom, entrusting him with her care and protection. This is considered a highly auspicious and generous act in Hinduism.
3. Panigrahan (Holding of Hands):
   • The groom holds the bride’s hand, symbolizing their union and the promise to support and care for each other. They pledge to be faithful partners and share the responsibilities of household life.
4. Saptapadi (Seven Sacred Steps):
   • The most important part of the Hindu marriage ceremony, Saptapadi involves the couple taking seven steps together around the sacred fire (Agni), each step representing a vow they make to each other. These vows include promises of mutual love, respect, support, and companionship in life.
5. Mangal Sutra and Sindoor:
   • The groom ties the Mangal Sutra (auspicious necklace) around the bride’s neck and applies Sindoor (vermillion) in her hair parting. Both are symbols of a married woman in Hindu culture and signify her husband’s commitment to her.
6. Havan and Agni Sakshi:
   • The couple performs a Havan (fire sacrifice), where offerings are made to the sacred fire, considered the witness (Agni Sakshi) of the marriage. The fire is a symbol of purity, and the couple seeks blessings for a harmonious and prosperous married life.
7. Ashirvada (Blessings):
   • After the ceremony, the newlyweds seek the blessings of their elders and the assembled guests, who offer their prayers for the couple’s happiness, health, and longevity.

Hindu Vivah ceremony is a beautifully layered occasion that unites two people by series of pious rituals and mantras for their whole life.