The main focus of the Graha Shanti is to ensure that the planets are aligned for the bride and groom to live a happy life together, thus translating to “peace planets.” The ceremony is conducted on the eve of the wedding day, with the bride and groom separated into their perspective homes or venues with their families. At both locations, a priest is called to perform the many rituals that make up the Graha Shanti. If the Graha Shanti is done correctly and thoroughly, any obstacles that could potentially be in front of the married couple’s path are lifted. For this ceremony, the venues of the bride and groom are adorned with flowers, icons and other various and elaborate decorations. Because this is the final evening of the bride and groom being singular of one another, the ceremony tends to bring out a lot of emotion for the families on both sides.
A memorable ritual within the Graha Shanti ceremony is the Pithi. Pithi is the paste that is made up of turmeric, rose water, chickpeas and other ingredients and the families rub this paste on the bride and groom. The paste is very good for the skin and this is usually a fun ritual for the families, bride, and groom.
There is never a dull moment in the Graha Shanti ceremony, especially for the photographers. The mission of the photographers is to simply follow what is happening. It is also important for the photographers to take candid photos of the bride, groom and their families. There are so many emotions to capture within the day and taking photographs of the expressions make wonderful memories. The combination of extravagant decor, continuous movement and all of the loving family members, the photographers are sure to take stunning photographs.
