\u201cGaaye holud\u201d, as the Bengalis term it, literally means \u201cturmeric on body\u201d. Better known as \u201chaldi\u201d in the north, it is an occasion that marks the commencement of wedding rituals for the Hindu bride or groom. I was to attend one this last week. In this case, a precious niece\u2019s. Mainly attended by the ladies of the family who anoint the bride with the auspicious fresh turmeric paste, muttering blessings and singing traditional songs while indulgently showering their affection and prayers for her long and happy married life.
\nThe colours usually worn by all at a \u2018gaye holud\u2019 ceremony range from shades of yellow and orange to red.
\nThis is a Bailou silk cotton jamdani that I draped to the event. The sunny yellow matched my happiness and sense of elation that day. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
\u201cGaaye holud\u201d, as the Bengalis term it, literally means \u201cturmeric on body\u201d. Better known as \u201chaldi\u201d in the north, it is an occasion that marks the commencement of wedding rituals for the Hindu bride or groom. I was to attend one this last week. In this case, a precious niece\u2019s. Mainly attended by the ladies…<\/p>\n