Hindu Wedding Wedding Checklist

Engage a Pandit (Priest)

Book a Hindu priest experienced with your community's traditions. Discuss muhurat (auspicious timing), ceremony structure, and any specific rituals.

Arrange Mandap Decoration

Book a mandap decorator to create the ceremonial canopy. Coordinate the style with your overall wedding decor.

Purchase Bridal Lehenga or Saree

Shop for the bride's wedding outfit. Traditional colors include red, maroon, and gold. Allow time for fittings and alterations.

Purchase Groom's Sherwani

Buy or rent a sherwani, kurta-pyjama, turban, and sehra for the groom.

Book Mehndi Artist

Hire a professional mehndi artist for the bride and guests. Book well in advance during wedding season.

Arrange Baraat Horse or Vehicle

Book a white horse for the groom's procession, or arrange a decorated vehicle if preferred.

Book Dhol Player

Hire a dhol player (or group) for the baraat procession.

Purchase Mangalsutra and Sindoor

Buy the mangalsutra necklace and sindoor (vermillion) for the ceremony.

Order Jaimala Garlands

Order elaborate flower garlands for the couple's garland exchange ceremony.

Gather Havan (Sacred Fire) Supplies

Prepare ghee, wood, grains, and other offerings for the sacred fire ceremony. The pandit may provide a list.

Confirm Mandap Setup

Verify the mandap is fully decorated with the havan kund (fire pit) in place.

Confirm Pandit Arrival

Verify the pandit has arrived and has all necessary puja items.

Baraat Assembly

Ensure the groom's party, horse, and dhol player are assembled and ready.

Confirm Garlands are Fresh

Verify the jaimala garlands are fresh and properly stored until needed.

Prepare Sindoor and Mangalsutra

Ensure sindoor and mangalsutra are accessible and ready for the ceremony.