👉 Venue of Tilak Ceremony: Traditionally, the Tilak ceremony is held at the groom’s residence. The bride’s family visits the groom’s home (or a chosen venue like a banquet hall nowadays) to formally mark the acceptance of the alliance. What happens at the Tilak Venue: The bride’s father, brothers, or close male relatives apply a Tilak (vermilion, sandalwood paste, or kumkum) on the groom’s forehead as a mark of honor. Gifts like clothes, sweets, fruits, dry fruits, jewelry, or money are presented to the groom and his family. Sometimes, a small puja (prayer ritual) is performed.

It is the festive journey of the groom from his home (or starting point) to the wedding venue (bride’s home or marriage hall). The groom is usually seated on a horse (ghodi) or sometimes in a carriage, decorated car, or even on an elephant in traditional weddings. The procession is accompanied by family members, relatives, and friends who dance, sing, and celebrate to the beats of dhol, shehnai, or band music. 🔹 Key Features of a Baraat: 1. Groom’s Entry – Groom dresses in traditional attire (sherwani, safa or turban, sword in hand sometimes). 2. Band & Dance – Guests, known as baraatis, dance in front of the groom. 3. Arrival at Venue – Upon reaching, the groom is welcomed by the bride’s family with Aarti, Tilak, and Garland exchange (Jaimala/Varmala). 4. Symbolism – It represents the groom arriving in style to take his bride home.