Marathi weddings are celebrated with simplicity and elegance, making them unique among other Indian matrimonies. From the food to the outfits and rituals, everything about a Marathi wedding is uncomplicated yet special. If you're attending a Marathi wedding soon or are curious to learn more about this type of ceremony, here are five things that make them one-of-a-kind. You'll be glad you read this!

What makes Marathi matrimonial so special?

Rituals

A Maharashtrian matrimonial usually only lasts for one day, which is shorter compared to other weddings that can last up to several days. Maharashtrian weddings are less complicated and more fun because they believe in having fewer customs- only the ones that matter the most. You'll be in awe of the simple yet culturally rich functions they have to offer when you attend a Marathi matrimonial. Even the bride and groom are dressed quite simply, and you'll really enjoy attending a wedding of this kind because it's all about finding joy in the little things.

Food ‍

If you've ever been to a Marathi Matrimonial, you know that the food options are usually limited. But what you might not know is that this is because Maharashtrians believe in quality over quantity. They would rather have a few really great dishes than a bunch of mediocre ones. So at a traditional Marathi Matrimonial, you might find dishes like Dal Rice, Puri, Dry Aloo Bhaji, Aamras, Puran Poli, etc. These are all dishes that people in Maharashtra eat on a daily basis, so they're familiar and enjoyable to everyone. Plus, since they're so basic, they don't require much oil or other ingredients - which keeps the quality high. Although Maharashtrians do have some variety during the wedding reception, the options for the main Marathi matrimonial are limited.

Limited functions

Marathi matrimonial weddings are usually small and intimate affairs, with the main events being the SakharPuda, Halad Chadavane (Haldi), the actual wedding, and the reception. Because so many people attend these events, it can get quite crowded. However, the pre-wedding and post-wedding rituals are usually attended by only close friends and family. In a Marathi matrimonial, all of the rituals are filmed, so even though it's not a live event, you won't miss anything important. The weddings are always traditional and worth watching. So if you're planning to attend a Marathi Matrimonial, don't expect anything huge or grandiose - the weddings are usually quite simple. But you'll love the way they're done!

Culture

Marathi matrimonial celebrations are all about honoring the culture and traditions that have been passed down for generations. Each and every ritual performed during the ceremony has a deep meaning and significance behind it. For example, the Karmasampati ritual is one where the bride's father prays to a lord along with the newlywed couple. This is done as a symbol of the beginning of a new journey for them. Another significant ritual is Grihapravesh, where the groom's family welcomes the bride into her new home. This is a ceremonial way of showing the bride that she is now a part of their family. All of the rituals performed during a Marathi matrimonial have great significance.

Marathi weddings stand out because of their unique simplicity - something that is often hard to find in today's grandiose celebrations. The lack of pomp and circumstance doesn't make these weddings any less significant, and in fact, many people find the honesty and heartfelt nature of the rituals to be refreshing. And of course, no Marathi wedding would be complete without a few Puran Polis - a classic sweet flatbread made with pure ghee. If you've had the opportunity to attend a Marathi wedding before, we'd love to hear about your experience in the comments below!