Nalugu is a cherished pre-wedding ritual in traditional Telugu weddings, filled with love, laughter, and vibrant colors. It is typically held a day before the wedding and involves applying a special paste made of turmeric (pasupu), sandalwood (gandham), and sometimes aromatic oils to the bride and groom. The purpose of Nalugu is both symbolic and practical — turmeric is considered auspicious and purifying. It cleanses the skin, brings a natural glow, and is believed to ward off evil. Family members and close friends take turns applying the paste while showering the couple with blessings, songs, and joyful teasing. It’s more than just a beauty ritual — Nalugu is a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and the loving warmth of family. It's one of the most fun and emotional moments leading up to the big day, with smiles, giggles, and sometimes even a playful splash of turmeric!

After the Nalugu ceremony, it is a cherished tradition for the bride and groom to visit local Hindu temples with their families. This visit is a way of seeking the blessings of the gods and goddesses before stepping into one of the most important moments of life — the wedding. The temple visit symbolizes purity, gratitude, and divine guidance. Surrounded by close family, the couple offers prayers for a happy, harmonious, and blessed married life. It is also a moment of calm reflection, a spiritual pause before the joyful celebrations begin. This meaningful ritual, held in the heart of our own village, connects us to our roots and adds a sacred touch to the wedding journey.

On the wedding day, the celebrations begin early with another round of the Nalugu ceremony. Turmeric and sandalwood paste are again applied to the bride and groom, symbolizing purification and preparing them for the sacred wedding rituals ahead. It’s a joyful and emotional time, with family members participating in blessings, music, and smiles. Following the Nalugu, the groom’s family performs a special tradition of offering sarees and other wedding attire to the bride. This gesture is more than just a gift — it represents acceptance, respect, and the beginning of her new journey as part of their family. The bride receives the saree she will wear for the Kanyadaanam and Mangalya Dharanam ceremonies. These rituals together reflect the love between two families, the richness of tradition, and the sacred union being celebrated.