Hindu weddings are elaborate affairs with every ritual bearing great significance. The most important ritual in every Hindu wedding is the 'Saat Pheras' or 'Saptapadi'. As per the Hindu Law an Indian wedding is not considered complete without the bride and groom taking the 'Saat Pheras' together. Hindu religion considers the fire as the sustainer of life and it is in the presence of this sacred fire that the Saat Pheras are taken.
The ways in which these seven steps are taken differ in each part of India. In some, these seven steps are taken with the groom holding the toe of the bride and walking the seven steps with the chanting of mantras and later going around the sacred fire. In yet others, the groom holds the hands of the bride and they go around the sacred fire seven times. Whichever way it is done, a couple is declared man and wife only after taking the 'Saat Pheras.
What do these seven steps signify?
With every step taken the couple invoke the blessings of the Gods and Goddesses for different benedictions.
Phera Funda 1 - Economic Stability
With the first step, the couple invokes the Gods for the plentitude of pure and nourishing food and a life that is noble and respectful.
Phera Funda 2 - Health is Wealth
With the second step the couple pray for physical and mental strength and fortitude to lead a healthy and peaceful life.
Phera Funda 3 - Faith
The third step is taken for the fulfilment of spiritual obligations. The Gods are invoked for blessing the couple with spiritual strength.
Phera Funda 4 - Love & Trust
The fourth step is taken for the attainment of happiness and harmony through mutual love and trust and a long joyous life together.
Phera Funda 5 - Progeny
The fifth step is taken to pray for the welfare of all living entities in the entire universe and for begetting noble children.
Phera Funda 6 - Togetherness
The sixth step is for bountiful seasons all over the world. The couple prays for bountiful seasons and seeks that they may go through these seasons together, just as they would share their joys and sorrows.
Phera Funda 7 - Forever
With the last step they pray for a life of understanding, loyalty, unity and companionship not only for themselves but also for the peace of the Universe.
Having exchanged these vows of love, duty, respect, fidelity and a fruitful union the couple agree to be companions forever. The Saat Pheras acquire more significance in that the couple prays for the peace and well being of the entire universe.
