This is traditionally the final part of the wedding rituals. The key component is the marital home where the bride and groom will live together as husband and wife, commonly referred to as the “wedding chamber.”
Traditional Practices
In the past, the groom was typically responsible for arranging the wedding chamber, while the bride handled furnishing it with items such as wardrobes, beds, mattresses, pillows, mosquito nets, and kitchenware. Nowadays, these responsibilities are often adjusted based on practicality. For instance, some couples may hold their wedding in a venue other than their own homes, making it inconvenient to perform the ceremony in the marital home. As a result, modern practices often simplify the ritual to include only the essential traditional steps.
Selecting an Auspicious Time
Before the bride is formally sent to the wedding chamber, an auspicious time must be chosen. Historically, there were instances where this timing was set for a date after the wedding day. In such cases, the groom was expected to stay alone in the wedding chamber until the chosen time, while awaiting the bride. During this waiting period, elders from both families would often counsel the groom on his responsibilities as a husband, emphasizing virtuous behaviour, kindness, and mindfulness. This practice could sometimes take place after the bride’s entry ceremony, but it is now more common to combine all rituals on the wedding day for convenience.
Items to Prepare
A grinding stone (symbolizing stability and steadfastness)
A walking stick (representing longevity)
A green gourd (signifying calmness and harmony)
One bag each of sesame seeds and beans (for growth and prosperity)
A water container (symbolizing unity and harmony)
A cat (or a cat figurine, representing love for the home)
A white chicken (or a figurine, symbolizing diligence and early rising)
New bedding items (including mattress, pillows, sheets, and blankets)
A holy water bowl and sprinkle utensil
A bowl of popped rice and flowers (flowers such as jasmine, roses, and symbolic love flowers, mixed with nine gold and silver coins or as preferred)
Ceremony Procedure (Approximately 10 Minutes Before the Auspicious Time)
1.Escort the bride and groom to the wedding chamber and have them wait outside the bedroom.
2.Bring all ceremonial items into the room and arrange them appropriately.
3.Place the bedding on the bed and set the holy water bowl and the bowl of popped rice and flowers on a bedside table.
4.At the designated time, an elder couple (known for their happy marriage) begins the bed-making ritual. They chant, “Is the one who brings stability and prosperity here?” Another replies, “They are here,” and the bed-making commences.
5.After finishing, the elder couple tests the bed. The man remarks, “This bed is truly wonderful. Anyone who sleeps here will be happy and comfortable,” to which the woman adds, “We wish for ever-growing happiness and joy.” They sprinkle holy water and scatter popped rice and flowers on the bed for good fortune.
6.The bride is then brought into the room by the elders. She bows or prostrates before the groom. They exchange valuable items, such as rings or necklaces (usually given by the groom).
7.The bride’s elders entrust her to the groom, advising them to respect and love one another steadfastly. They conclude with blessings for happiness and prosperity before leaving the couple alone in the room.
