Bengali marriages are a blend of tradition, custom and religious beliefs. It is an occasion when the entire family gather at one place and remain busy in making the arrangements.The scenario of togetherness can be seen in each and every corner.Each Bengali wedding whether simple or lavish is made interesting by colorful rituals.The wedding customs are performed by the women and it is aptly called "Stri Acahar".A number of symbols are used in a Bengali marriage to signify purity,sanctity and various aspects of life.For example red is widely used as it is the color of love,emotion,luck and copulation.On the other hand black is not used as it is associated with hopelessness and evil.Banana trees,coconut and 'ghat' are used as symbol of child bearing.All the rituals are meant to guide the bride and groom to afruitful,happy and prosperous life. The pre-wedding ceremonies include Ashirbaad,Aai Budo Bhaat, Dodhi Mongol and Gaye Holud. The first two ceremonies take place a few days before the wedding day.But Dodhi Mongol and Gaye Holud take place in the morning on the wedding day itself.The pre-wedding ceremonies symbolize that the couple and their families eagerly look forward to the special day.The wedding rituals are very colorful.It starts from Bor Boron when the groom enters the bride's house.This ritual is followed by Potto Bastra.The next ritual is Saat Paak.During this ritual the bride is brought to the Chadnatolla (where the wedding takes place).This is followed by a series of rituals including Subho Dristi,Mala Badal,Sampradan,Yagna,Saat Paak,Anjali and Sindoor Daan.
