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Hasta Melap Joining of the Hands
This ceremony is the union of the two palms, signifying that bride and groom are united as one and will live as one in body, mind, and spirit. Holding each other's hands, Neeti and Alex vow to walk hand in hand throughout their life. The couple is reminded to remember the divine, to be strong, and to look upon others with love, and compassion and sympathy.
Chhedabandhan Tying of the Knot
Neeti's sister, Deepti, ties one end of the Alex's scarf to one corner of Neeti's sari to represent eternal togetherness. The cloth used is a symbol of purity and unity. While a single thread of raw cotton is easily torn, interwoven strands of cotton form a strong bond. Similarly, the abilities and virtues of the bride and groom are much stronger when combined rather than separated.
Mangalphera | Auspicious Four Rounds
Bound by the knot, Neeti and Alex will take four circles to represent the basic principles that will guide their daily activities and thought processes. Alex leads the first three rounds, signifying his contribution in helping each other attain dharma (trust, sincerity, honesty and discipline), artha (earning a livelihood by truthful and honest means), and kaama (happiness in family life). Neeti leads the last round signifying moksha (eternal bliss when one leaves all material thoughts, beliefs and attachments behind). Each circle is initiated when Neeti's brother fills the bride's palms with rice signifying the following blessings: good health, happiness, wealth, and prosperity. Neeti then offers the rice to the supreme souls.
