Indian weddings are a beautiful blend of rituals, emotions, colors, and community. Every event in the wedding timeline holds a deep cultural meaning and reflects centuries-old traditions passed through generations. Whether it’s a lavish multi-day affair or a simple cultural ceremony, an Indian wedding follows a structured yet joyous schedule that combines religious practices with modern flair.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming without the right guidance. That’s why this blog is here—to walk you through a clear and complete Indian wedding schedule of events. Whether you’re the bride, groom, planner, or a curious guest, this guide will help you understand what happens when, and why each moment matters.
In this post, you’ll learn about Indian wedding functions, their importance, typical timings, who’s involved, and what to expect. From pre-wedding traditions to post-wedding ceremonies, everything is explained in simple English, making it easy to understand, follow, and enjoy the vibrant journey of an Indian wedding.
1. Roka Ceremony (Pre-Engagement Ritual)
- The Roka ceremony is often the first official event in an Indian wedding schedule.
- It symbolizes the consent of both families to move forward with the marriage.
- The bride and groom exchange gifts and blessings, but no rings yet.
- Elders bless the couple, and both families celebrate with light snacks.
- It’s considered an unofficial engagement announcement.
- Usually happens months before the wedding date.
- Close family and friends are invited.
- The atmosphere is joyful and relaxed.
- Both families get to know each other better.
- Many couples wear traditional outfits.
- Sometimes priests perform a short religious ritual.
- No dancing or loud celebration, but it’s a sentimental milestone.
- The Roka marks the beginning of wedding preparations.
- It’s often followed by engagement planning.
- The Roka sets the tone for the upcoming events.
2. Engagement Ceremony (Ring Exchange)
- A formal ring ceremony celebrated with great joy.
- Held a few weeks or months after Roka.
- The bride and groom exchange rings in front of both families.
- A symbol of official commitment and love.
- It involves dancing, music, and speeches.
- Professional photography and videography are common.
- Sometimes it includes cake cutting and dinner.
- The couple may wear western or ethnic formal attire.
- Decor themes often reflect the couple’s style and love story.
- Both sides exchange gifts.
- Close friends and relatives often give performances.
- It’s one of the most modern and fun pre-wedding events.
- Prepares families for the wedding countdown.
- Helps build stronger bonds between families.
- Often hosted at a banquet or wedding hall.
3. Mehendi Ceremony (Henna Function)
- Traditionally held 1–2 days before the wedding.
- A joyful celebration where the bride’s hands and feet are adorned with henna.
- Female friends and relatives also get henna designs.
- Henna is considered auspicious and lucky.
- Designs include the groom’s name hidden in patterns.
- The bride usually wears green, yellow, or orange outfits.
- The event includes music, food, and dancing.
- Professional mehendi artists are hired.
- Guests may receive mehendi favors.
- Believed that the darker the henna, the stronger the love.
- Can be hosted at home or in a decorated venue.
- Mostly attended by women and young girls.
- Creates a festive mood before the big day.
- Songs related to mehndi are played throughout.
- Captures the essence of Indian beauty and tradition.
4. Sangeet Ceremony (Musical Night)
- Sangeet means “music”, and this night is full of entertainment.
- Happens 1 or 2 days before the wedding.
- Entire families of both sides perform dances.
- A stage is set for dance competitions and shows.
- Popular Bollywood songs fill the air.
- Choreographers may help plan group dances.
- It’s a chance for families to bond through fun.
- The bride and groom often have a special couple dance.
- Traditional performances are also included.
- Hosted at a grand wedding venue or hotel.
- Guests enjoy lavish dinner and drinks.
- It’s a blend of modern party and Indian culture.
- Speeches and toasts add emotional moments.
- Sangeet builds excitement before the wedding day.
- One of the most anticipated pre-wedding functions.
5. Haldi Ceremony (Turmeric Ritual)
- A traditional ritual held on the morning before the wedding.
- Bride and groom are applied with turmeric paste by elders.
- Turmeric is believed to purify and bless the couple.
- It adds a natural glow to the skin.
- Yellow is the dominant color of the event.
- Family members wear yellow or floral outfits.
- Held at home or in a small decorated area.
- Accompanied by songs and light-hearted teasing.
- It’s a spiritual and joyful event.
- A symbol of positivity and protection.
- The bride and groom usually sit on wooden stools.
- Turmeric is mixed with rose water, sandalwood, or oil.
- After the Haldi, the couple may not meet each other until the wedding.
- Photography captures candid, colorful moments.
- A cherished ritual across all Indian regions.
6. Ganesh Puja (Pre-Wedding Prayer)
- Ganesh Puja is performed to remove obstacles and bring blessings.
- Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.
- Usually conducted at the bride’s and groom’s homes.
- Performed a day before the wedding or on the same day.
- Involves chanting of mantras by a priest.
- Fruits, sweets, and flowers are offered.
- The couple sits through the entire puja.
- Both families gather to witness the rituals.
- Enhances the spiritual significance of the wedding.
- Puja includes lighting a sacred fire (havan).
- Invites positive energy into the home.
- It’s a moment of peace before the grand celebrations.
- Both homes are cleaned and decorated.
- Often followed by a light lunch or snacks.
- The puja sets a blessed tone for the wedding day.
7. Wedding Baraat (Groom’s Procession)
- The baraat marks the arrival of the groom to the wedding venue.
- It’s a fun and festive parade with music, dancing, and celebration.
- The groom often rides a decorated horse or fancy car.
- Friends and family dance around him on the way to the venue.
- A DJ or live band usually leads the baraat.
- Guests are dressed in their best traditional attire.
- The bride’s side welcomes the groom’s party at the gate.
- This moment is called the Milni Ceremony.
- Garlands are exchanged between elders.
- It’s a beautiful display of family bonding.
- Photographers capture dynamic and candid shots.
- The energy and excitement are unmatched.
- The groom’s friends often carry smoke bombs or color sprays.
- Sometimes, choreographed dance performances are added.
- The baraat sets the stage for the wedding vows.
8. Wedding Ceremony (Main Ritual)
- The wedding ceremony is the heart of the entire celebration.
- Held under a beautifully decorated mandap (canopy).
- A Hindu priest guides the rituals with Vedic chants.
- Includes Kanyadaan (giving away the bride).
- Followed by the Mangal Phere (seven sacred circles).
- The bride and groom make seven vows to each other.
- Ends with Sindoor and Mangalsutra rituals.
- Families gather close to witness this emotional moment.
- The ceremony takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Guests are often served refreshments nearby.
- The couple is showered with flower petals.
- Music plays softly in the background.
- The mandap is richly decorated with flowers and lights.
- This moment binds the couple in spiritual unity.
- It’s followed by group photos and blessings.
9. Wedding Reception
- The reception is a grand celebration after the wedding.
- Hosted by the groom’s side or jointly.
- It’s a formal party to introduce the newlyweds.
- Held at a banquet hall, hotel, or outdoor venue.
- Includes a lavish dinner, music, and dancing.
- The couple makes a stylish entrance.
- Guests line up to congratulate and take photos.
- Live bands, DJs, or cultural shows entertain the crowd.
- Speeches and toasts may be given.
- Everyone dresses in formal or glamorous outfits.
- The couple often changes into western formal wear.
- It’s the most relaxed and festive of all events.
- Professional photographers capture every happy moment.
- The couple may cut a wedding cake.
- It’s a beautiful way to end the wedding celebrations.
10. Vidaai Ceremony (Bride’s Farewell)
- Vidaai is the emotional farewell of the bride from her parental home.
- Marks the bride’s transition to her new family.
- Usually takes place immediately after the wedding.
- The bride hugs her family with tears and blessings.
- She throws rice or coins over her shoulder to wish prosperity.
- The family walks her to the car or doli.
- Often accompanied by sad but proud moments.
- Symbolizes a new beginning for the bride.
- The groom holds her hand during this process.
- Parents offer final words of advice and blessings.
- Traditional songs are played in the background.
- The vehicle is decorated with flowers and ribbons.
- Close friends may accompany her to the groom’s home.
- A bittersweet and meaningful ceremony.
- Begins her journey into married life.
11. Griha Pravesh (Bride’s Welcome at Groom’s Home)
- The Griha Pravesh is the bride’s first entry into her new home.
- The groom’s family welcomes her warmly.
- She kicks a rice-filled pot at the entrance.
- Symbolizes prosperity and abundance.
- Her feet are dipped in vermilion water to leave red footprints.
- This ritual is believed to bring good luck.
- Mother-in-law performs a small aarti.
- Guests inside cheer and bless the couple.
- The home is decorated with flowers and lights.
- Sometimes includes small games to break the ice.
- A light meal or sweets are served.
- Sets the tone for her relationship with in-laws.
- The bride’s comfort is prioritized.
- Marks the bride’s place in the new household.
- A symbolic start to domestic bliss.
12. Pag Phera (First Visit to Bride’s Home)
- Pag Phera occurs a few days after the wedding.
- The bride returns to her parental home for the first time.
- She is usually accompanied by her husband.
- The visit can last a day or two.
- The bride’s family hosts the couple.
- They give them gifts and blessings.
- A symbolic ritual of love and care.
- Reflects the bride’s deep connection with her parents.
- Enhances the emotional ties between both families.
- The couple is pampered with food and attention.
- A joyful yet respectful event.
- It allows the bride to relax and share her new experiences.
- Sometimes includes a small puja or feast.
- A meaningful tradition observed across many regions.
- Ends with the bride returning to her new home.
13. Satyanarayan Puja (Post-Wedding Blessing)
- A peaceful religious ceremony after the wedding.
- Dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Usually performed at the groom’s home.
- Aims to bless the couple with happiness and harmony.
- Held within a week of the wedding.
- A priest performs the puja and storytelling (katha).
- Guests are invited to pray and participate.
- Sweets and fruits are offered to the deity.
- The couple sits through the full puja.
- It’s a quiet, spiritual experience.
- Marks the start of a pious life together.
- Strengthens the couple’s faith and values.
- Sets a peaceful vibe after the celebrations.
- Ends with prasad (blessed food) distribution.
- An important tradition in many Indian households.
14. Reception by Bride’s Family (Optional)
- Some families hold a separate reception after the wedding.
- This is hosted by the bride’s side.
- Invites guests who couldn’t attend the main wedding.
- Often includes local friends, colleagues, or extended family.
- The couple is introduced formally to the bride’s circle.
- Includes music, food, and cake cutting.
- Bride often wears a gown or elegant saree.
- A photographer captures the relaxed moments.
- May include cultural or regional traditions.
- Gifts are exchanged between families.
- Allows both families to reconnect.
- Helps brides settle socially post-wedding.
- Less formal but equally important.
- A great way to extend the celebrations.
- Keeps the wedding spirit alive longer.
15. Honeymoon (The Final Chapter)
- The honeymoon is the couple’s private getaway.
- It marks the start of their new life together.
- Planned after all wedding rituals are done.
- Destinations vary—beaches, mountains, cities.
- Offers rest after hectic celebrations.
- Helps build closeness and understanding.
- Can last from a few days to a few weeks.
- Couples often share pictures online.
- Memories are cherished forever.
- A time for laughter, love, and discovery.
- Some couples prefer international trips.
- Others enjoy a simple staycation.
- Planning is usually done months in advance.
- It’s the final part of the wedding journey.
- The perfect start to married life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is a typical Indian wedding?
A traditional Indian wedding spans 3 to 5 days, covering all pre-wedding and post-wedding rituals.
2. Who attends the pre-wedding ceremonies?
Close family and friends usually attend Roka, Mehendi, Haldi, and Sangeet.
3. What should I wear to an Indian wedding event?
Bright, traditional outfits like lehengas, sarees, or sherwanis are ideal. Avoid black or white unless the family says otherwise.
4. Is it okay to attend only on the wedding day?
Yes. Guests are welcome to attend just the main ceremony, but joining more events makes it more special.
5. Are gifts expected at Indian weddings?
Yes. Cash in an envelope, or personalized gifts, are common.
Conclusion
An Indian wedding is not just an event—it’s a beautiful journey full of rituals, emotions, and lifelong memories. Each event in the schedule adds depth to the union of two souls and two families. From the Roka to the honeymoon, these moments are cherished by all involved.
If you’re planning or attending an Indian wedding, knowing this schedule of events helps you appreciate every tradition. Enjoy every step, dance every beat, and feel every blessing—it’s a celebration like no other!
