Events Leading up to the big day
Hen weekend - Organised by Rakhee Patel.
Friday 30th May to Sunday 1st June
2 nights in London. Meeting up at the hotel around 17:00 hrs.
Priya's Hen Weekend Photos- please click!
Stag weekend - Organised by Raks Nayee.
Friday 27th and 29th June 2008 2008 - Weekend in Manchester.
Mandap Muhurat or Pithi
Friday 18th July at 9:30 hrs at both parent's home.
The actual ceremony commences with the performance of the Mandap Muhurat; the ceremony symbolising the beginning of the wedding in the family which may be three or five days prior to the wedding day.
At the same time, the betrothed are smeared with a yellow paste made of turmeric powder, oil and perfume. This makes the skin smooth and fairer. The ceremony is performed twice a day and is called 'Pithi'.
Grah Shanti or Satak
Saturday 19th July at 09:30 hrs (Priya's) / 14:30 hrs (Yatish's)
This ceremony starts with Ganesh Sthapan, an invitation to Lord Ganesh to be present at this occasion. His presence is believed to ensure the smooth running of the ceremonies and to remove any obstacles, bringing happiness and prosperity. This is performed by a learned priest. This follows the ceremony of Grah Shanti which is performed in presence of the parents and the betrothed along with relatives and friends. The priest will tie Meendhal to the right hand of the bethrothed, symbolising an emblem of purity. Manek Sthumbh - the pillar of gem - is also bestowed at the ceremony, expressing the sign of good luck and wealth.
This will take place at the Sawley Church hall, Tamworth Rd, Long Eaton, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG10 3FB