Gaye Holud Ceremony in May

A Gaye Holud ceremony is celebrated by both Muslims and Hindus from the region of Bengal (Bangladesh and Indian West Bengal) several days before the marriage ceremony. The festive ceremony allows guests to apply turmeric paste to the couples' face and body which softens and beautifies the skin. The Holud is not a religious event. Below are some photographs from one of my client's Holud.

Friends and Bridesmaids helping the Bride get ready

Alex, the groom, arrives first and sits on the stage in a chair. The bride’s procession begins with Tania (the gorgeous bride) walking behind her cousins and aunts who are carrying the Holud, sweets, and decorations. As you can notice, the bride and her friends are coordinated in red clothing. Tania walks under a pretty cloth that is held over her by close friends and family members and sits beside her groom.

The sweets and decorations are placed in front of the bride and groom. Everyone has a chance to greet the bride and groom, say their wishes, paint the yellow turmeric on their faces, and feed them sweets!

Once the ceremony is done, everyone enjoys both dinner and dancing. Several of the girls perform a special dance for the bride and groom.

Don't you just love the Bride's reaction!? I think she enjoyed watching the dances that her friends choreographed for her Holud!!

Everyone has a chance to join in...

The celebration lasted into the evening hours.