Rice is ingrained in Hindu culture. The staple is a foundational part of cultural cuisine while also being a tool for art and creativity, such as for rangoli designs. Even the purest form of the grain has a function at Hindu weddings, as the newlyweds are showered with uncooked rice during the ceremony. You’ve probably seen pictures of a bride or groom smiling as a waterfall of rice cascades down upon them, filtering through their fingers like sand. But what is the meaning behind the tradition?

The Meaning Behind Throwing Rice at Hindu Weddings and Who Throws It

When the Bride and Groom Shower Each Other with Rice

During the ceremony, the bride and groom pour rice over each other to bless them with fertility, prosperity and happiness – while also allowing the couple to experience some light-hearted fun during the ceremony. The couple can also mix other elements into the rice, from spices like turmeric and saffron to pearls, to emphasize their wishes for the other’s good health and well-being.

When the Guests Shower the Newlyweds with Rice

The act of the guests raining rice onto the bride and groom is known as "Akshata," which translates to "unbroken rice" in Sanskrit. After the couple has exchanged their vows, guests gather around them, holding handfuls of rice, and gently shower the couple with blessings and well wishes.

In Hindu culture, rice is often considered a sacred offering to the deities, hence its prevalence in traditional ceremonies. Representing nourishment, fertility and sustenance, it signifies everything the bride and groom are praying for: a prosperous and harmonious marriage. By showering the couple with rice, the community is showing their support, bestowing blessings for good fortune and abundance upon the couple.

When the Bride Showers Her Family with Rice

The bride can also throw uncooked rice as part of Vidai (which translates to “goodbye”). In Vidai, the bride’s family stands behind her as she throws the rice given to her by her brother (or another family member) over her shoulder. This serves as recognition that, while she is leaving her family to join a new one, she is still grateful to them. Here, the rice she throws represents blessings of wealth, prosperity and happiness that she will continue to wish upon them as she ventures into her new life. In other words, it’s a reassurance that she will stay connected to the family that raised her.

What Type of Rice is Used in Hindu Weddings?

In Hindu weddings, because uncooked, long-grain rice is traditionally used for rituals, basmati is a popular choice. The slender appearance of the grain adds a pinch of elegance to the ceremonial atmosphere. It also has an auspicious nature and a pleasant fragrance, making it a favorable option for a day full of symbols and prayers for the future.

While white rice is the most commonly used type, colored rice variations have also been used to infuse more vibrancy into the celebration. Red, yellow and green are commonly picked due to their colors’ meanings – love, prosperity and fertility, respectively.

What to Do and Not Do When Throwing Rice in Hindu Weddings

While the act of showering rice is a joyous and heartfelt gesture, it’s also important to do it correctly to ensure that you’re being safe and respectful, especially if you’re a guest:

Do:

• Only use uncooked rice that is clean and free from impurities.
• Shower the rice gently and from a moderate distance to avoid discomfort or injury.
• Keep personal space and comfort level in mind when throwing.

Don't:

• Use colored rice without the couple's consent or without considering the significance behind the color.
• Throw rice aggressively or forcefully, as it may cause discomfort or harm.
• Stand too close when throwing.
• Waste or disrespect the rice by throwing it carelessly or inappropriately.

Most of all, just remember to be courteous and sincere as you throw.

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