Meitei wedding: From Poi-Louba to Luhongba ceremony, explore the richness of Manipur culture

Meitei community, a prominent ethnic group residing in norastern state of Manipur in India, holds its weddings with a rich tapestry of cultural rituals and vibrant tritions. A tritional Meitei wedding, deeply rooted in heritage and customs, is an elaborate affair that unites families and communities in joyous celebration. Recently, actor Randeep Hooda tied knot with his longtime girlfriend Lin Laishram following tritions of Meitei wedding in Imphal and it was a sight to behold. wedding ceremony took place on November 29. For unversed, let us delve deeper into rituals of a tritional Meitei wedding.

Pre-wedding customs of a Meitei wedding

In Meitei culture, marriages are often arranged by families based on compatibility and familial considerations. Once a suitable match is found, families exchange visits to discuss alliance. formal engagement, known as Luhongba, is a significant prelude to wedding ceremony, symbolising commitment between families and betrod couple.

Before wedding day, various tritional rituals take place. One such ceremony is Poi-Louba, where groom's family visits bride's home with gifts and offerings. Haina Thaba ceremony involves exchange of clos between families, symbolising acceptance and harmony.

Rituals to be followed on wedding day

wedding day begins with rituals at respective homes of bride and groom. se rituals, known as Hoi Wakhanni, involve prayers and blessings from elders for a prosperous union.

pivotal moment arrives with Luhongba ceremony, formal wedding ceremony. bride and groom, orned in tritional Meitei attire, exchange garlands amidst chanting of hymns and mantras by priest. Ougri ritual follows, where couple seeks blessings from deities for a harmonious life ahe.

bride tritionally wears a vibrant phanek (a wraparound skirt) paired with a innaphi (shawl), orned with exquisite Meitei motifs. groom dons a khan phaba (tritional Meitei attire) with tritional hegear, symbolising cultural pride and heritage. Elaborate jewellery, including kaphi (necklace) and sannapat (bangles), furr embellish bride's attire, ding grace and elegance.

Post wedding rituals, a grand feast, known as Laklani, awaits guests. Tritional Meitei delicacies and specialties, such as Eromba and Ngari, tantalise taste buds, while guests partake in celebrations, reveling in music, dance, and camarerie.

Significance of a Meitei wedding

A Meitei wedding is not merely a union between two individuals but an occasion that brings entire community toger. Relatives, neighbours, and friends actively participate in various ceremonies, symbolising collective support and solidarity.

Each ritual and ceremony in a Meitei wedding holds profound cultural significance, preserving age-old customs and values. ceremonies serve as a testament to community's rich heritage and tritions passed down through generations.

wedding culminates with heartfelt blessings and well-wishes from elders and guests, bestowing newlyweds with hopes for a blissful and prosperous married life.