Unique Tradition In Gujarat: Groom's Sister Marries Bride In Wedding Ceremony

Marriages in India are frequently celebrated as festivals in which entire families and friends gather to witness the union of two people. The bride and groom, along with their families, create enduring memories with a rich history of enjoyable rituals and traditions.

What is the strange tradition that takes place in Gujarat?

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In Gujarat, however, a novel twist is given to the traditional wedding narrative: the groom's sister takes on his part in the wedding vows.

Weddings in India are regarded as spiritual unions not only between two people but also between their families. While many traditions and rituals contribute to the pleasure of the event, certain locations, such as three tribal villages in Gujarat¡ªSurkheda, Sanada, and Ambal¡ªfollow an unusual custom.

What exactly happens in some villages?

In some villages, the groom's sister plays an important part in the wedding, acting in place of her brother to protect his life.

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According to this unique tradition, the groom's unmarried sister or any unmarried woman in his family serves as his proxy in the marriage ceremony. She performs the ceremonies on his behalf, enabling the groom to stay at home with his mother while the sister oversees the 'baraat,' solemnising the marriage with the bride, and accompanying her to their home.

Why does it happen?

Kanjibhai Rathwa, a resident of Surkheda village, sheds light on this practice, adding, "All the rituals that a groom traditionally does are conducted by his sister." Instead of her brother, she takes the 'mangal phere' with the bride."

Ramsinghbhai Rathwa, the chief of Suekheda village, emphasises the importance of this custom, adding that straying from it has been associated with negative outcomes.

He goes on to say, "A couple of times some people have tried to not follow the tradition," and continues, "It is seen that either they end up with broken marriages or their family life does not go well, or several other types of problems also arise."

How does it help the groom under special circumstances?

According to some accounts, even if the groom does not physically attend his wedding, he is allowed to dress in a sherwani, wear a safa (turban), and carry a ceremonial sword while waiting at home.

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This custom stems from the concept that the male deities of the hamlet were bachelors, forcing grooms to stay at home as a sign of respect.

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