Vivaaha: The Eight Types of Hindu Weddings
The Sanskrit word for wedding is विवाह (vivaaha). Vivaaha also means ‘marriage.’ Basically it refers to “supporting dharma.” Dharma is a Sanskrit word that means ‘harmony,’ ‘sustainability,’ ‘righteousness,’ ‘welfare at large’ – in essence, ‘that which is most beneficial to the world.’ The wife is referred to as sahadharmini, an equal partner in upholding dharma and treading the right path. The wedding is typically performed with mantras from the Vedas.