In traditional bunts style weddings, the mantap (stage) is decorated with bunch of aracanut, mango leaves and jasmine flowers. As per tradition, the bride wears a red or maroon Kancheevaram sari, Mangalore jasmine-studded plait, a patti around the waist, vanki on the arm, vadungeela, green and red bangles, a mundole on her forehead and a diamond stud in her ears.
The groom wears a kache-panche (traditional dhoti) and a white shirt, though modern Bunts even wear sherwanis or suits.
Again, the wedding is conducted by the bride's family. So the girl comes to the wedding hall first -- 30 minutes before the Dhare (kanya dhan). Before entering the hall, the groom's sister will wash her feet with water. And bring her inside the hall where Bride's aunt and other sumanagalis will do arati and put haldi-kumkum.
The bride's sister-in-law will lead her to the mandap with the other members of the family and will seat her on the right side facing the audience. As the bride enters, a Kombu (trumpet) is blown. The same procedure goes for the bridegroom too. The bride's brother will wash his feet and groom's brother-in-law will lead him to the mantap. He will be seated on the left side of the stage facing the audience.
Again, in a Hariyona, raw rice mixed with haldi-kumkum is kept. A silver chambu (silver pot) with holy water, coconut flower and a coconut on top is also kept which signifies the presence of Lord Ganapati. A very tall deepa decorated with jasmine flowers is lit.
Image: A priest performs the rituals, guided by the bride's maternal uncle.
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