Winter season is almost here and with the cool breeze in the air, the season of wedding is all set to make a grand entrance as well. There are different wedding rituals celebrated by people of different cultures. When it comes to Bengali weddings, one of the most fascinating traditions is Aiburo Bhaat. This is the last meal relished by the to-be brides and grooms at their own houses just a day before the wedding. Before we move forward with the wedding season, let’s get to know about the ritual of enjoying a feast of Bengali delicacies during Aiburo Bhaat.
What Is The Bengali Tradition Of Aiburo Bhaat?
The term ‘Aiburo’ stands for young and unmarried people and ‘bhaat’ means rice. The pre-wedding tradition of Aiburo Bhaat is getting continued for a long time in the history of Bengali weddings. Bengali parents host a special lunch for their children on the day before they get married and start a new chapter of their lives. Brides and grooms are treated with a huge spread of scrumptious delicacies, mostly consisting of authentic Bengali food. Some of the must-haves during Aiburo Bhaat are Bhaat, Dal, Paanch Rokom Bhaja (5 types of fried vegetables), Sukto, Maachh, Mangsho, Chutney, Papad, and Mishti.
These are just some of the few dishes that are served in most households. Parents also make sure to include the favourite dishes of their daughters and sons during Aiburo Bhaat. It is a fun-filled and massive feast of deliciousness loaded with Polao, Maach Er Muro, Ilish Maach, Chingri Malai Curry, Chicken dishes, Mutton recipes, Rosogolla, Mishti Doi, and more. The spread looks delightful with all the finger-licking dishes served and garnished beautifully on the table or floor.
On the other hand, there are also some Bengali households that have a different touch to the Aiburo Bhaat celebration. Many families do not serve chicken, mutton, or any dishes made with meat on this auspicious occasion. Before the bride-to-be and groom-to-be start gorging on the spread of food, the elder family members perform some traditions. They put durba grass and rice seeds on the brides and grooms’ heads while giving Ulu Dhwani. Later, the to-be brides and grooms seek blessings for their new lives.
Also read: 11 Packing Must-Haves For Your Dream Destination Wedding, The Ultimate Checklist!
Relative Invite The Brides & Grooms To Celebrate The Pre-Wedding Custom
The celebrations of Aiburo Bhaat begin some weeks before the big day. Parents are the last ones to treat their daughters and sons and celebrate the ritual. Before them, relatives of the bride invite her to their places. And relatives of the groom invite him to their houses for the custom. The loved ones also treat them with a spread of lip-smacking dishes loaded with veg recipes, fish, sweets, and more. In fact, the elders also perform the ritual of putting durba ghaas and rice seeds on their heads. Relatives also shower love, blessings, and gifts to them.
Also read: 8 Best Offbeat Winter Wedding Destinations Around The Globe For A Spectacular Ceremony!
It is a one-of-a-kind unique pre-wedding celebration and is enjoyed with pomp and glory. Have you had Aiburo Bhaat at your wedding?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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