It is the month of December and the season of weddings 2019-20, has just begun. There are grandeur festivities, huge celebrations, traditional customs, rites and rituals which are performed with much enthusiasm and joy during the occasion of marriage. It is a roller coaster of a ride of emotions for the couple, mainly the bride, at the time of the wedding. The wedding in Hindu culture is also called ‘Vivaah Sanskar’, ‘Kalyanam’ etc. The wedding ceremonies are a grand affair and extend up to many days. The rituals, traditions and seven vows, taken during the auspicious ceremony holds special significance in both the bride and groom's life. Marriage Dates 2019-2020 and Shubh Vivah Muhurat: Know the Auspicious Dates for Wedding in the Coming Year. 

There are no standard procedures when it comes to marriages in a Hindu ceremony. There are different versions of marriages, which depend on family background, local traditions, ancestral history, and the resources available with the respective families, among other factors. However, three rituals are a must in the Hindu culture: 

  • Kanyadaan – giving away his daughter by the father

  • Panigrahana –groom holds hands of the bride in front of the fire to signal their union

  • Saptapadi – 7 steps in the presence of fire, also popularly known as 7 ‘pheras’ (vows)

Since the ritual of Saptapadi is considered to be a very significant ritual in weddings, we at LatestLY bring you the list of 7 vows that the groom and the bride take on the day of their marriage, while performing this ritual. Getting Married This Wedding Season? Ways to Get Mentally And Physically Fit For Your D-Day. 

The First Vow:

Groom Promises: “Om Esha Ekapadi Bhava Iti Prathaman”

Meaning: I’ll be offering you food, nourishment, and will be very helpful in every way. I will ensure welfare and happiness to you and our children.

Bride Promises: “Dhanam Dhanyam Pade Vadet”

Meaning: I will take care of the family too. I will also be responsible for our household, nourishment and financial responsibilities.

The Second Vow:

Groom Promises: “Om Oorje Jara Dastayaha”

Translation: I will be together with you, and stand by you through thick and thin. We will protect our house and take care of our children together. I’ll remain loyal to you.

Bride Promises: “Kutumburn Rakshayishyammi Sa Aravindharam”

Meaning: I am willing to share any and every responsibility and promise to be by your side as your strength and courage. I will be happy with your happiness. In return, you will love me solely.

The Third Vow:

Groom Promises: “Om Rayas Santu Joradastayaha”

Meaning: I will work hard and ensure my efforts help us grow financially, help our children get a better education, and see that they live longer.

Bride Promises: “Tava Bhakti As Vadedvachacha”

Meaning: I promise to love you as the only man for the rest of my life, while other men will be secondary. As you are my husband, I commit loyalty and chastity.

The Fourth Vow:

Groom Promises: “Om Mayo Bhavyas Jaradastaya Ha”

Translation: Through this marriage, you have blessed me with sacredness and made my life beautiful. You have completed me. I will respect your wishes, and your family wishes as well. I promise to make you a part of every decision in my life. 7 Smart Tips to Consider When Finding the Right Shoes for Your Big Day. 

Bride Promises: “Lalayami Cha Pade Vadet”

Translation: I will stand by you and support you in every decision you make, and support them as well, even if there’s no else to support. I promise that I will stand in the way of any harm that comes in your way.

The Fifth Vow:

Groom Promises: “Om Prajabhyaha Santu Jaradastayaha”

Meaning: You are my best friend and a well-wisher now. You have enriched my life merely by your presence. God bless you.

Bride Promises: “Arte Arba Sapade Vadet”

Meaning: I will always trust you and honour you, and strive to fulfil your wishes till I am alive. Your happiness is my happiness, and your sadness is my sadness.

The Sixth Vow:

Groom Promises: “Rutubhyah Shat Padi Bhava”

Translation: You have filled my heart with pleasure after taking these steps with me. Will you keep me happy all the times just like you did now? I vow to stand by you in the grief.

Bride Promises: “Yajna Hom Shashthe Vacho Vadet”

Meaning: I will always be supportive of your thoughts and stand by your side like a rock. I wish that God grants us a healthy and long life. 7 Important Things to Consider Before Booking a Perfect Venue for Your Marriage Ceremony. 

The Seventh Vow:

Groom promises: “Om Sakhi Jaradastayahga”

Translation: We’re husband and wife now. We are one. I am yours for eternity and so are you.

Bride Promises: “Attramshe Sakshino Vadet Pade”

Meaning: I am now your wife, with God being the witness. We will love, trust, respect, and honour each other forever.

All the above-mentioned rituals are considered to be very auspicious and are a must in an ideal marriage. However, the ritual of Saptapadi is said to be the most important one. By law and tradition in India, no marriage is said to be binding or complete until the ritual of Saptapadi is completed by the bride and the groom in the presence of fire. And since the wedding season is here, we hope the above rituals enlightened you. Happy Marriage Season, fellas!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 21, 2019 02:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).