An Engagement is a prelude to the wedding and is a significant ceremony in the Hindu tradition. It brings together not only the future bride and groom, but also their respective families. The rituals conducted as part of the ceremony signifies a mutual agreement of the family members to the impending wedding between the bride and the groom. Usually, the ceremony is held after seeking the counsel of Vedic astrologers to ensure that the horoscopes of the soon to be bride and the groom are compatible with each other.

The engagement ceremony is conducted on an auspicious date as per the lunar calendar. The ceremony is presided by a purohit who initiates the formalities by performing Ganapati pooja. The respective families exchange gifts amid the chants of Vedic mantras as a gesture of mutual affection to the betrothed couple. The exchange of gifts will be followed by an exchange of Nischithartha tamboola, which is a collection of fruits and other auspicious material to formalize the commitment.

After considering the auspicious dates, the purohit will then draft a “Lagna Patrika” containing the details of the soon to be bride and the groom and their families along with the date and time for the wedding. It is then read out loud, seeking affirmation from both the families. Once the contents are approved by both the families, they are considered to have committed to the wedding, which is further sealed by an exchange of rings between the bride and the groom.

The engagement is usually a small ceremony with immediate family members and close friends in attendance. Vedic astrology plays a huge role in the ceremony.