Hindu · Wedding day

Kashi Yatra

A playful South Indian rite where the groom 'sets off' to renounce the world and is coaxed back to marry.

Also known as: kashi yatra, kasi yatra, mock pilgrimage

What it means

In Kashi Yatra the groom mock-pretends to give up worldly life and leave for Kashi (Varanasi) as an ascetic. The bride's father intercepts him and persuades him that married householder life (grihastha) is the nobler path — a charming, light-hearted moment before the wedding proper.

What happens

  1. 1The groom 'departs' with an umbrella, slippers, and a staff.
  2. 2The bride's father stops him and invites him to marry his daughter; the groom returns.
Applies to: South Indian Hindu
This explanation is under review by a religious authority — a companion to, not a replacement for, your pandit.

More Hindu rituals

Roka / Tilak
The first formal commitment between the two families, marking that the match is settled.
Ganesh Puja
An opening prayer to Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles before the wedding rites begin.
Haldi
A turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom for a radiant glow and protection before the wedding.
Gaye Holud
The Bengali turmeric ceremony — haldi from the groom's home is carried to the bride and applied to her.
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