Bodo Marriage Customs and Rituals

Summary

This article outlines the significant rituals and social aspects of Bodo marriages, including the father's blessing, the nuptial knot, specific prayers, the evolving use of 'Sindoor', and the overall religious and social character of the ceremony.

Bodo Marriage Customs and Rituals

Highlights

Post-Offering Blessings and Handover

After offerings conclude, the father of the bride seeks divine blessings for the couple and publicly entrusts his daughter to the groom for life. Following this, the Purohit traditionally binds the nuptial knot between the bride and groom.

Joint Prayers and Offerings

The bride and groom jointly recite the 'Gayatrimantra' and offer 'Prasad' (mixed corns) to the 'Mandap' as part of their prayers to God, signifying their shared commitment and spiritual union.

Evolution of 'Sindoor' in Bodo Marriages

Historically, 'Sindoor' was not used in Bodo marriages. However, due to the influence of Hindunisation, it has become an indispensable element in modern Bodo marriage ceremonies, as noted by Jyotish Chandra Narzary.

Social and Religious Character of Bodo Marriage

While some historical views, like Endle (1911), describe Bodo marriage primarily as a social and festive gathering, it is clear that numerous essential rites, rituals, and ceremonies are integral. These rituals make Bodo marriage an institution with a strong religious character, deeming it incomplete without them.

Bodo Marriage Customs and Rituals

Summary