Project Title: Traditional Kashmiri Floral Wedding Card
Designing your own wedding card can evoke a wide range of emotions, ranging from excitement and joy to moments of reflection and sentimentality. This project will always be close to my heart! The design was inspired by the rich and intricate floral patterns of Kashmiri art. Kashmiri floral designs are renowned for their beauty, symmetry, and vibrant colors, making them perfect for a wedding celebration. The colours used are vibrant and eye-catching, with a focus on shades of red, green, and gold to symbolise love, prosperity, and tradition.
DEVGON :
The Devgon ritual is a significant cultural tradition observed in Kashmiri Pandit families, who are the Kashmiri Hindu community. This ritual is performed to invoke the blessings of the family deity or Kuldevta/Kuldevi (ancestral deity) for the well-being and prosperity of the family.
Purpose: The primary purpose of the Devgon ritual is to honor and seek the blessings of the family deity. It is believed that the family deity protects and guides the members of the family.
Ritual: The ritual is typically conducted by a priest or a senior member of the family who is well-versed in the customs and traditions. The ceremony involves chanting of mantras, performing rituals, offering prayers, and making offerings to the family deity.
Purpose: The primary purpose of the Devgon ritual is to honor and seek the blessings of the family deity. It is believed that the family deity protects and guides the members of the family.
Ritual: The ritual is typically conducted by a priest or a senior member of the family who is well-versed in the customs and traditions. The ceremony involves chanting of mantras, performing rituals, offering prayers, and making offerings to the family deity.
MAENZRAAT:
In Kashmiri Pandit culture, Mehndiraat is an important pre-wedding ritual that is celebrated with much enthusiasm and traditional fervor.
Purpose: Mehndiraat, also known as "Mehendi Raat," is derived from the Hindi word "Mehendi," which refers to henna. It is a ceremony where the bride-to-be adorns her hands and feet with intricate henna designs. Mehndiraat is typically held one or two days before the wedding and is considered auspicious.
Ritual: Mehndiraat is a joyous occasion marked by singing and dancing. Traditional Kashmiri folk songs and dances are performed, creating a lively and celebratory atmosphere. Guests join in the festivities, adding to the merriment of the occasion.
Purpose: Mehndiraat, also known as "Mehendi Raat," is derived from the Hindi word "Mehendi," which refers to henna. It is a ceremony where the bride-to-be adorns her hands and feet with intricate henna designs. Mehndiraat is typically held one or two days before the wedding and is considered auspicious.
Ritual: Mehndiraat is a joyous occasion marked by singing and dancing. Traditional Kashmiri folk songs and dances are performed, creating a lively and celebratory atmosphere. Guests join in the festivities, adding to the merriment of the occasion.
WEDDING:
Indian weddings are known for their grandeur, hospitality, and the coming together of families and communities. They are elaborate affairs that often span several days, filled with rituals, ceremonies, feasting, and festivities. Each aspect of the wedding is steeped in symbolism and tradition, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India.
