Why did brides wear red?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

Indian brides wear red because it holds deep cultural and symbolic significance. The color red is associated with the Hindu goddess Durga, who symbolizes new beginnings, power, and feminine strength. This connection to the deity makes red an auspicious and sacred color in Hindu culture.

The tradition of wearing red by Indian brides dates back thousands of years. In fact, Indian saints and holy men in the 3rd millennium B.C. were the first to wear red as a symbol of their spirituality and connection to the divine. However, it was during the Mughal Era that Indian brides began to embrace the color red for their wedding attire.

During the Mughal rule in India, red became a popular choice for wedding attire among the royal families. The Mughals, who were of Central Asian origin, brought with them their own customs and traditions, which influenced Indian culture. They introduced the tradition of wearing red for brides, and it soon became a symbol of opulence and royalty.

Red also holds significance in Indian astrology and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple. It is believed that wearing red on the wedding day ensures a long and happy married life. The color red is associated with passion, love, and fertility, making it an ideal choice for a bride’s wedding attire.

Furthermore, red is considered a color of celebration and joy in Indian culture. It is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the couple. The vibrant and bold nature of red also adds to the festive atmosphere of Indian weddings.

In addition to its cultural and symbolic significance, the color red is also aesthetically appealing. It is a bold and vibrant color that stands out in a crowd, making the bride the center of attention on her special day. The rich and luxurious fabrics often used in red wedding attire further enhance its appeal.

Personal experiences and situations vary, but as an Indian, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of the color red in weddings. The bride’s red attire, often a saree or a lehenga, is meticulously chosen to reflect her beauty and elegance. The red color is complemented with intricate embroidery, gold embellishments, and stunning jewelry, making the bride look like a goddess on her wedding day.

The choice of red for Indian brides goes beyond fashion and aesthetics. It is deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, symbolizing new beginnings, feminine strength, and prosperity. The tradition of wearing red by Indian brides continues to be cherished and celebrated, keeping the rich heritage alive in modern wedding ceremonies.