The Parsi community
is Zoroastrian. They arrived in India 1200 years ago from Persia.
The Parsi community is less then 0.02% of India's population but
their contribution in all spheres of Indian life - arts, sciences,
politics, business, and foremost of all - in social commitment
and philanthropy - has been phenomenal. Like in all Indian communities,
fire plays an important role their religion, and hence Parsi matrimonial
customs are very similar to those of other Indian matrimonials.
Despite the Parsi community’s humble beginning in India,
which was followed by grand progress expansion and achievements,
they have managed to keep their tradition and customs very much
in tact. This is reflected in the Parsi matrimonial rituals.
Parsi matrimonials start with the procedure of matchmaking. The
first ceremony is called the ‘Rupia Peravanu’. A few
ladies from the groom’s side visit the girl’s house
carrying a ses (a silver tray carrying traditional items, required
for all important occasions). The girl’s mother at the door,
while performing a simple Parsi aarti, greets them. This is known
as ‘Achoo Meccho’. The bride is then called to receive
silver coins along with blessings from the elders. This pre -
matrimonial ceremony is as good as a pre - engagement. It is interesting
to note that an egg is used in this Parsi Wedding ceremony and
is broken into the pot in which a mango sapling will be planted
during the pre - matrimonial ceremony of ‘Mandav Saro’.
This is followed by the girl’s family reciprocating the
visit and is known as ‘Adravann’. Rings are exchanged
along with pre - matrimonial gifts. The gifts to the bride-to-be
include sari and red bangles. ‘Sagan’ is done to the
bride and the groom.
Just a couple of days before the actual matrimonial day, prayers
are offered to ward of any evil eye and to make sure that the
matrimonial alliance goes off without a hitch. The Parsis call
it the ‘Mandav Saro’ and is held at the respective
houses independently. Thursdays and Sundays are considered auspicious
for this ceremony. Planting of a mango sapling marks the ceremony.
Another pre - matrimonial ritual that takes place, on the same
evening, is the ‘Aderni’, where the bride is given
red bangles to wear on her wrists. These bangles are meant to
be worn until the actual matrimonial day. The bride is also presented
with jewelry and other gifts. The gifts that are presented to
the bride are from her father and include every item possible
that will help her set up her house after the matrimonial alliance.
Simultaneously, a similar pre - matrimonial ceremony is held at
the boy’s house. After this ceremony, the bride and groom
are not allowed to meet till the wedding day.
The dead ancestors are offered prayers of honour on the third
and fourth days. These days are known as the 'Varadh - Patra'
days. The prayers said on these days are known as 'Satum' and
'Baj' and are performed in the Parsi Fire Temple. This is the
manner in which the dead and beloved are being invited to the
wedding.
