In a mandap - canopy or marriage stage - decorated with flowers and with a fire as witness, the Hindu marriage ceremony begins. According to Hindu tradition, fire is considered the sustainer of life. It is believed that all the devas (heavenly beings) sit around this auspicious fire. The priest directs various family members to give offerings into the holy fire.

The wedding ceremony is long and elaborate, with every step rooted in Vedic tradition, signifying various aspects of life that is to follow after the marriage. The various steps in the marriage ceremony include:

1. Baarat (Wedding Procession)

2. Commencement of Marriage

3. Kanya Danam (Giving away the daughter)

4. Vivaaha (Wedding)

5. Paanigrahana / Hasta Milap (Holding the Hand)

6. Laya Homa (Oblation of Parched Grain)

7. Agni Parinaya (Circumambulation around the Fire)

8. Asmarohana / Shilarohana (Mounting the Stone)

9. Saptapadi (7 Steps)

10. Hradayasparsha (Touching the Heart)

11. Mangal Sutra Dharana (Wearing of Mangal Sutra necklace by bride)

12. Suhaag / Sindoordana (Wearing of the Sindoor by the bride)

13. Aashirvaad (Blessing)