In Indian culture marriage is regarded as a sacrament, a rite that enables two individuals to begin their life together. The diversity and the ethnicity of the Indian community are evident in the myriad of colourful weddings that are celebrated. Indian marriages, all over the world, are big events and are held in an extravagant manner. The weddings are replete with ceremonies and rituals that are entertaining, fun filled and enjoyable.

Marriages among the Indians are dependant on the religion to which the bride and the groom belong. While the marriages vary greatly among the different ethnic communities and religions, there are certain basic ceremonies that are observed in all the Indian weddings. There are pre wedding, main day and post wedding rituals that are observed in all the marriages in the country. The wedding day is always preceded by an engagement ceremony wherein certain rituals are performed and the boy and the girl exchange rings. This is generally followed by the all important and very colourful Sangeet ceremony. This is a fun filled event and is accompanied with much song and dance.

The main wedding is when the celebration begins in full swing. Indian marriages are two to three day affairs wherein several traditions are followed by both the bride and the groom. Every ritual is performed in great detail and with total dedication. The marriage begins with the arrival of the groom to the house of the bride, which is the wedding venue. The groom and his friends are known as Baraatis. Welcoming them is an important part of the main marriage. They are let into the house amidst much fanfare and celebration. They are the pampered guests of the bride's family and are given the royal treatment.

While the rituals of the marriage are being conducted the guests are treated to a sumptuous meal. The feast at an Indian wedding is elaborate and the choicest cuisines are on offer for the guests. After the wedding rituals are over, there are a number of wedding games that are conducted. These are an important part of the post wedding ceremony. The games are centred on the bride and the groom and the family and friends of both parties join in the merry making.

Among the post wedding rituals is the Vidaai. This is when the bride bids adieu to her family and is all set to proceed towards her husband's house. The welcoming of the bride at the house of the groom is also an important occasion. There are prayers that are offered for blessings to be showered on the newly weds as they begin their new life. A reception is generally held at the groom's place in honour of the bride.

The many traditions that are followed at the time of the wedding add to the glamour and charm of the event. These transform the occasion into a joyous celebration. The weddings not only mark the union of two individuals but also the coming together of two families. The Indian marriages are grand affairs and the family members and friends of both the bride and the groom participate with much joy and enthusiasm to make it a truly memorable event for all.