If we turn back the pages of history we will discover that wedding ceremony is one of the oldest custom and ritual known to mankind and Indian cultural history also tells us the same.

According to the verses and hymns on marriages in the Vedas we get to know that individuals were considered eligible for marriages after puberty. Evidences from other scriptures and Hindu epics reveals that divorce and remarriages were not permitted in ancient India. Due to foreign invasions early childhood marriages became a custom in ancient India. Earlier references on marriages in the ancient texts suggest that the Aryans were monogamous.

Even in the epic of Mahabharata the concept of polygamy and polyandry have also been found. In the medieval India the custom of marriage was mandatory for every girl. The concept of polygamy existed mainly among the Kshatrias for political reasons. With the passage of time the simplicity in Indian wedding is somehow lost as the customs and rituals became complicated and rigid.

The custom of dowry, which turned out to be the biggest social evil of our country gave rise to various problems related to marriage. Today it has become the biggest social evil of our country. Marriage is the most important social event for any Indian family. The customs and rituals associated with marriages in India vary according to the region reflecting the rich and diverse cultures of India. Indian wedding speaks of Indian tradition, culture and heritage. The wedding rituals reflect the true regional color of India. So next time when you get an invitation to a wedding ceremony don't miss it.