A Marriage Scene

A Marriage Scene

Marriages, they say, are planned in heaven and solemnised on the earth. Some people consider marriage a necessary evil while others call it a great bliss. Marriage, everybody knows, is a social necessity as well as a great personal need. It is like a beautiful house. Those standing outside want to get into it while many of those inside, want to get out of it. It is, no doubt, and interesting episode in life. I attended the marriage of my friend’s sister last Sunday. I arrived there at noon. The barat had already arrived. The members of the marriage part arrived there at noon. The barat had already arrived. The members of the marriage part were sitting in big pandal. They were taking tea. A band was playing. The bride and the bridegroom were sitting by the fire. The family priest was reciting mantras. The bride and bridegroom went round the sacred fire. They took some solemn vows to be faithful and loyal to each other. All ceremonies were soon over. The baratis were served with delicious lunch. Soon they left. All was quiet. I also had the lunch. I took leave of my friend. I came back home musing over the ritual of marriage.