Customary to many North Indian weddings, the groom rides to the bride’s house on a white horse. The white baraat (hindi= a marriage procession) horse is highly decorated with Indian finery including a red and gold embroidered cloth outfit. Following close behind are the groom’s family members and wedding band, or baraatis (hindi= people accompanying the procession). The white horse signifies his power, community standing and wealth.
The baraat is led by fireworks to the bride’s house or special meeting point. At the destination, the elders of both families meet and welcome the groom with garlands and aarati (hindi=Hindu ritual, devotional song is sung to develop the highest love for God).
An interesting fact: Traditionally the white horse is female (more docile) as opposed to the male stallion.
For those that cannot afford the white horse or logistically cannot arrange one based on their desolate location, you’ll see the standard procession led by the groom.
