Bengali Wedding Rituals: GAYE HOLUD

“Gaye holud” means applying turmeric paste on the body. Turmeric is an important component of Bengali Hindu wedding. People believe that it evades bad omens and helps in good start of new life. And who doesn’t want to look brighter on his/her BIG DAY?

Haldi (turmeric paste) is prepared for applying on face before special bath so that at the time of wedding ceremony they look fresh and bright. Turmeric is considered as a healing agent. It removes blemishes, purifies skin and gives a glowing radiant look. Turmeric also symbolises healthy relationship. There are many traditional folk songs that are sung during preparation of turmeric paste and application of the paste.

Gaye holud ceremony starts at groom’s house where the groom gets first touch of turmeric paste and then mustard oil is applied.

This program generally takes place on the day of wedding (usually in the morning) both at the bride and groom’s house. It may take place even one or two days prior to wedding. Married women at house bring water from nearby water body like pond or river (Check out blog on Jolbhora).

In some families relatives from bride’s house may come to the groom’s house for applying turmeric paste and then takes remaining paste for the bride. Sometimes groom’s family relatives go to the bride’s house alongwith turmeric paste and “tatwa”. Sweets and sarees are part of tatwa.

After senior married women at the house bless the bride/groom, friends and relatives like sister in law put haldi (turmeric) as much as they can.

After applying turmeric paste the bride or the groom as the case may be is showered with holy water from Jolbhora ceremony.

Traditionally it used to be a simple program on the day of wedding. But these days many families have full day programs only for this ritual . This involves singing, dancing and lots of fun 🙂