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158: JAINS TODAY IN THE WORLD
three times and then proceeds to a deep meditation (kumbhaka dhyāna). The parents of the bride pour sacred water on the hands of the couple, in reciting the mantra "Om Arham".
Taking Mahāvīra or the other Tirthankara as witness, those present sing the "mangalāṣṭaka" so that the newly wed enjoy harmony, love, peace and happiness in every moment of their lives. They may offer rice at the feet of the statue, if there is one while singing the "Namokara Mantra".
Now, the auspicious rounds are made by the couple around the lighted lamp, the bride followed by the groom. Each round ends with an offering of rice by each of the fiancés and the singing of the mantra "Om Arham".
The groom and the bride pronounce the seven vows that unite them for all their life. After new rounds, they sit down, the new wife at the left of her husband. As marks of rejoicing bells are then rung and conches blown.
Then, a last round of the sacred fire is walked by the newly weds with the husband first, followed by his wife. They recite three times a special "mantra" and their parents also sing one. The husband puts the "mangalasūtra" around the neck of his wife and applies the vermilion "sindūra" on her forehead. Each participant to the ceremony thanks "Agni for his presence to bless the married couple and asks forgiveness for involuntary mistakes.
Next, a reception is hosted for the guests, during which wishes of success are expressed for the newly weds.
Various other rites are performed for setting into a new home, undertaking a new professional activity and so on. Each includes a "pūjā" with specific "mantra".
Now, we will see the other main rites after the marriage. They are:
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