Rich in culture, Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world. And water rituals play a major role, especially in wedding ceremonies. Discover the beautiful Hindu wedding water rituals and how our lakefront setting makes the perfect backdrop to honor this revered element.
The symbolism of Hindu wedding water rituals
Hindus use wedding water rituals for blessings, purification, and as a symbol of unity. Hinduism is quite diverse, so rituals can vary. But throughout Hinduism, water is essential for sanctifying marriages.
Sanctified by a Hindu priest, holy water, often mixed with turmeric, is used to bestow blessings for a harmonious and prosperous life together. The couple also uses holy water by holding hands and pouring water over them. This represents the purification of thoughts and actions as they enter into marriage. And it’s also symbolic of the merging of two individuals onto a shared path of commitment and love.
Along with being a source of purification and a conduit for offering prayers, water is a highlighted element in these Hindu wedding ceremony rituals as well.
Water rituals seen at Hindu weddings
There’s a wealth of knowledge about Hindu weddings. To become familiar, check out “Rituals and Customs of a Hindu Wedding: Design and Planning Guide” by Kavita Kapoor. This book gives a wonderful exposure to Hindu culture and symbolisms and gives understanding to wedding rituals. Here are a few cultural touchstones often seen at Hindu weddings.
An important part of Hindu wedding water rituals is the copper pot called the Kalash. The priest fills it with water and uses it throughout the ceremony. After invoking water from all the rivers and oceans, worship continues with the five elements of creation.
The Haidi ceremony is a ritual where a mixture of holy water and turmeric are applied to the couple prior to the wedding. Family members wipe the mixture away and offer their blessings.
At many Hindu weddings, couples take seven steps around a fire called the Saptapadi, and sprinkle water as they make vows to symbolize their future life together.
One of the most touching water rituals at a Hindu wedding ceremony is the Kanyadaan. In this key tradition, the bride’s father gives her hand in marriage while pouring sacred water. It symbolizes a new life with her husband.
Another water ritual involves tying the couple’s hands together, then sprinkling water during the Hasta Milap or Panigrahanam. This ceremonial tradition signifies unity and an inseparable bond.
Our lakefront setting for a Hindu wedding
Earth, water, fire, air, and space represent many tenets of Hinduism. The natural setting and outdoor design of The Lake House Inn honor all five elements. Located on peaceful and pristine Lake Nockamixon in Bucks County, PA, you’ll find the perfect blend of natural scenery, calm water, and open sky.
Experience the real wedding of Natalie & Aash by PA wedding photographers Knot Just Any Day.
Ready to host New Jersey’s diverse Hindu community
Next-door New Jersey is home to a vast Indian American community, and it also has the highest percentage of Hindus in the nation. Our premier Bucks County, PA venue is just an hour from Trenton, less than 90 minutes from Edison, and 1.5 hours from Newark. The Lake House Inn offers an unforgettable wedding experience, comfortably hosting 300+ guests. And our gracious inn offers a combination of 14 beautiful rooms and suites.
To learn more about Hindu weddings at The Lake House Inn, schedule your tour today.