The Haldi ceremony is a lively pre-wedding custom where turmeric paste, blended with sandalwood and rose water, is ritually applied to the faces and limbs of the bride and groom. Originally, it was a way to give the king and queen of the day a healthy glow, as these ingredients have strong antiseptic qualities, leaving the skin radiant and fragrant. Over generations, it has gained a divine status. As time passed, regulations and restrictions likely were introduced.
Could not help but find myself eavesdropping on a few conversations between guests at this ceremony as I was just sitting down, minding my own business.
One guest said to another, "Why are we even here? It is supposed to be a family function."
At another instant, a different guest was heard whispering, "Only married people can do these rituals. They are blessing the soon-to-be newlyweds. Who are the young chicos to go around giving blessings? I even saw a toddler doing the haldi." The other party replied, "But it is ok for the cousins to do it as there is a lot of teasing involved."
Like that, everyone created their own rules as they went along, knowing neither the true reason behind the ritual nor the proper way to perform it. One thing they were certain of was that they were there to enjoy themselves. They do not care about its significance.
