The journey does not begin at the altar, but days, and often weeks, before. The pre-wedding phase is dedicated to purification, preparation, and celebration. It commences with the Roka or Tilak , an informal ceremony where the families formally accept the union. This is followed by the Sangeet (literally "music"), an evening of raucous, joyful song and dance traditionally hosted by the bride’s family but now often a combined affair. The Mehendi ceremony follows, where intricate henna patterns are applied to the bride’s hands and feet, symbolizing not only beauty and joy but also the strength of love—it is said the darker the stain, the deeper the bond between the couple. A poignant ritual, the Haldi (turmeric) ceremony, involves applying a paste of turmeric, sandalwood, and rosewater to the couple’s bodies. This act purifies the skin, blesses them with fertility, and wards off evil, while also serving as a tender moment of grooming by close female relatives.