The Bhakhra Sindoor ritual, performed during weddings in the Mithila region, remains a b part of its cultural identity today. In many areas of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand, the groom applies ghee to the bride's hair parting and then fills it with Bhakhra Sindoor five times. In a Maithil wedding, which lasts four days, this tradition is considered a symbol of marital bliss, purity, and an unbreakable matrimonial bond.
Maithil Wedding Tradition: In traditional wedding ceremonies held in the Mithila region, the Bhakhra Sindoor ritual holds special significance, where the groom fills the bride's hair parting with sindoor five times. This unique practice has been observed for centuries in parts of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Jharkhand. During the ritual, ghee is first applied to the bride's hair parting, followed by the sindoor application in the presence of elder women. This four-day long wedding also includes traditions like Chauthari and traditional delicacies, which bly reflect Mithila's cultural heritage and matrimonial beliefs.
What is Bhakhra Sindoor?
Generally, people are familiar with red sindoor. However, in Mithila and surrounding areas, Bhakhra Sindoor is used. This sindoor is different from common sindoor and is also used in religious rituals. It is considered a symbol of the purity and integrity of the relationship.
How the Ritual is Performed
In Maithil weddings, there's a special preparation before the groom applies sindoor to the bride's hair parting. The bride's hair parting is divided into two sections, and ghee is applied to it. After this, the groom takes Bhakhra Sindoor and fills the bride's hair parting five times. During this, the women of the family cover the bride's face with a cloth so that no one else can see her. It is believed that this ritual is performed to protect the marital life from ill omens.
The Wedding Ceremony Lasts Four Days
Weddings of Maithili Brahmins do not conclude in a single day like in other regions. Here, the wedding ceremony spans four days. The groom stays at the bride's home from the wedding day until the fourth day, performing several traditional rituals. During this period, both the groom and bride sleep on the ground, and bathing is prohibited. This tradition is known as Chauthari.
The Royal Cuisine of Mithila
Maithil weddings are considered special not just because of their rituals, but also due to their traditional food. Here, Dahi Chura (curd and flattened rice), various types of pickles, six to seven kinds of vegetables, fish, pakoras, and soft rasgullas are served. This meal is considered a special welcome for guests and makes the wedding memorable.
A Tradition Rooted in Culture
The tradition of Bhakhra Sindoor is not merely a ritual but a cultural heritage passed down through centuries. Even in the modern era, where contemporary methods are adopted in many places, the people of Mithila cherish this tradition. This ritual is not just a part of a wedding; it also offers a glimpse into society's ancient beliefs and culture.
If you are interested in Indian traditions, the sindoor ritual of Mithila weddings will introduce you to the depth of Indian culture. These regional customs remind us that India's diversity is its greatest strength.
