Why do we apply haldi to the bride and groom before wedding?

Haldi (turmeric) and weddings have a longstanding relationship. Since time immemorial, brides and grooms have used natural remedies to brighten their complexion right before their D-day and haldi pack has always been a frontrunner. The 'haldi' ceremony has become as important as the 'mehendi' ceremony these days and that has much to do with the way Bollywood has glorified Indian weddings, but have you ever wondered why ‘haldi’ ceremony is such an important event?

Turmeric is considered to be quite a significant spice in Indian cuisine and that's one of the reasons there's a special event designed around the spice, commonly referred to as the ‘haldi' ceremony. Usually organised at the bride as well as the groom’s house, either a day before or on the morning of the wedding day, the ceremony is all about applying haldi paste to the bride and the groom’s face, neck, hands and feet by their loved ones. The ceremony is marked by enactment of folk songs and dance performances. Here's a look at what makes haldi so significant.

The yellow colour of turmeric is considered very auspicious as per Indian tradition. It is said that yellow is perfect for the new couple who are hoping to start a life full of prosperity. This is why, in many cultures the bride and groom wear yellow clothes on their wedding day as well.

In olden days, when cosmetic beauty treatments and salons were not available, Indians used their own natural beauty secrets to ensure that a would-be couple looked radiant and wonderful on their wedding day. Haldi is known to have properties that leave the skin clear and glowing.

Turmeric or haldi is known for its medicinal properties as well as for being antiseptic. An application of this ingredient before marriage ensures that the bride and groom are blessed with a blemish-free skin. It also ensures that the couple is protected against any cuts, bruises or ailments before the wedding.

Haldi also purifies and cleanses the body as it is known as an effective exfoliating agent. After the haldi ceremony, when the paste is rinsed off, it helps to get rid of dead cells and detoxifies the skin.

Well, some may not agree but a lot of people believe that the reason for applying haldi is to ward off evil spirits from casting any ill affect on the bride and the groom. This is why, the bride and groom are usually not allowed to leave their home after the haldi ceremony, till their wedding mahurat. In some regions, the bride and grrom are also tied a sacred red thread or given some small amulets and other items for protection against the evil eye.