Paanigrahana or Hasta Milap (Holding the hand)

The bridegroom stands facing west and the bride sits in front of him facing east. The rights hands of the couple are tied with a thread that has been blessed with religious incantations. The tying of the hands signifies an eternal bond that will join them forever. The couple then pray to give them strength and bless their union.

He seizes her hand and recites Vedic hymns for happiness, long life, and a lifelong relationship.

When the bridegroom takes the bride's hand he says: "O Sarasvati, gracious one, rich in offspring, you whom we hymn first of all the Gods, may you prosper this marriage.". "I seize your hand."