Indian marriage ceremonies are usually a multi-day affair, involving a number of rituals and customs that vary based on the region, religion, and community of the bride and groom. Here are some of the common components of Indian marriage ceremonies:

1. Engagement: This is the first official announcement of the upcoming marriage, where the families of the bride and groom exchange gifts and make a formal commitment to the marriage.
2. Mehendi: A few days before the wedding, the bride’s hands and feet are decorated with intricate henna designs. The henna symbolizes good luck and happiness for the bride.
3. Sangeet: This is a pre-wedding ceremony where the families of the bride and groom come together to sing and dance, often featuring traditional folk songs and Bollywood numbers.
4. Haldi: The bride and groom are smeared with a paste made of turmeric, sandalwood, and other ingredients, to give them a natural glow and cleanse their skin.
5. Baraat: The groom and his family arrive at the wedding venue on horseback, accompanied by a lively procession of music and dance.
6. Kanyadaan: This is a significant ritual where the bride’s father gives away his daughter’s hand in marriage to the groom, symbolizing the passing of responsibility and care.
7. Saat Phere: This is the most important ritual of the wedding, where the bride and groom take seven vows around a sacred fire. Each vow represents a different aspect of married life, such as love, trust, and mutual respect.
8. Sindoor and Mangalsutra: After the wedding rituals, the groom applies sindoor (vermilion powder) on the parting of the bride’s hair, and ties a sacred necklace (mangalsutra) around her neck, signifying her status as a married woman.
9. Reception: After the wedding, a grand reception is held where friends and family members come together to celebrate the newlywed couple and offer them gifts and blessings.

Indian marriage ceremonies are filled with rich symbolism and traditions that highlight the importance of family, community, and cultural identity.