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Let’s take a look at the importance of the traditional Hindu ritual – saptapadi or saat phere.
The bride and groom engages in several traditions that are vibrant and enjoyable. (Image: Shutterstock)
Indian weddings are not just the union of two individuals, they also signify the coming together of two families and the celebration of various traditions and rituals. Each region, religion and culture in India brings its unique rituals.
From the sacred saptapadi or saat phere (seven vows) taken around the holy fire to ceremonies like the mehendi (henna application) and baraat (groom’s procession), these rituals signify love, commitment and mutual respect.
While people are well aware of rituals like haldi and mehendi, many don’t know what saptapadi is and the meaning of each of the seven wedding vows that complete Hindu marriage.
What Does Saptapadi Mean?
Saptapadi is a Sanskrit term where sapta means seven and padi means steps. It signifies the seven sacred steps that a couple takes around the holy fire or agni during a Hindu wedding ceremony, symbolising their lifelong commitment to one another. Each step is accompanied by a vow, which is meant to unite the couple forever.
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Seven Vows Of Hindu Marriage Explained
As the bride and the groom take rounds around the holy fire, a priest chants these seven hymns, each signifying a promise that they make to one another.
In the first vow, the couple promises to respect and honour each other. They seek the Lord’s blessings to provide them with food and nourishment in their upcoming lives. Here, the groom promises to provide shelter and food to the bride, and she also promises responsibilities towards her partner and family.
With the second step, the couple promises to look after each other through thick and thin. They also vouch to support one another with the physical, emotional and spiritual strength needed to live a good life.
In the third step, the couple prays for the wisdom, wealth and happiness needed to lead a comfortable life. They promise to foster affection and liking and be faithful to each other. The couple also vows to work together to better their future.
The fourth step concerns a couple’s carnal needs. Here, the bride takes the lead, prays to the Lord to be blessed with healthy children, and promises to love her husband in every possible way. The couple vouches to be lifelong companions to acquire knowledge and happiness through mutual love, respect and trust.
In the fifth step, the bride and groom pray to grow together. They seek blessings to bear and raise noble children.
With the sixth step around the holy fire, the couple prays for a long life of togetherness, and the bride promises to enjoy all the good things in life with her husband.
In the final step, the couple promises to adopt a noble bent of mind and lead a sacred life. They vow to build a new relationship filled with love, friendship and trust.
