What it means
When the groom arrives, the bride's mother performs an aarti and welcomes him. In a much-loved playful moment she pulls his nose — a humbling reminder that he has come to ask for her daughter's hand. The groom then tries to enter while the bride's sisters tease and bar the way.
What happens
- 1The bride's mother does the groom's aarti and ceremonially tugs his nose.
- 2Playful negotiations with the bride's sisters precede his entry to the mandap.
Applies to: Gujarati Hindu
This explanation is under review by a religious authority — a companion to, not a replacement for, your pandit.