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Chauthari, also called Chaturthi in some languages, is an extraordinary ritual that is unique to Mithilaanchal and is not observed anywhere else in the world
After four days, someone from the groom’s family comes to fetch him. If the time is auspicious, the groom takes the bride back to his home. (Local18)
Have you ever heard of a groom staying at his in-laws’ place for a few days just after marriage, before even taking the bride home? Yes, this unique ritual in Mithila has been followed since the Ramayana era. After marriage, the groom is required to stay at the bride’s house for four days.
This tradition is particularly observed by Maithil Brahmins, where the groom is treated with great respect. The tradition of the groom staying at the in-laws’ house for four days after marriage is called Chauthari.
It is believed that true happiness and respect are attained at the in-laws’ house only when the groom stays for two to four days. Staying longer is considered to diminish respect and honour. During this period, many rituals are performed, and the groom is given special attention. This tradition is specifically practised within the Brahmin community.
Days Full of Rituals
Chauthari, also called Chaturthi in some languages, is an extraordinary ritual that is unique to Mithilaanchal and is not observed anywhere else in the world.
In this ritual, as soon as the groom arrives with the procession, the ceremony begins, but unlike in other cultures, the groom stays behind after the procession departs the next morning. The groom stays at his in-laws’ house for four days.
During these four days, several customs are followed. One of the key rituals is that neither the bride nor the groom bathe for four days. They also eat sweet foods but avoid salt, and they must not leave the courtyard of the house. They remain in a special room, called the Kobhar Ghar.
During this time, the groom is given significant respect. After four days, someone from the groom’s family comes to fetch him. If the time is auspicious, the groom takes the bride back to his home.
This tradition was also said to be followed by Shri Ram during his marriage to Sita. After the marriage of Ram and his brothers, they stayed at their in-laws’ homes for four days, and on the day of Chauthari, they took their brides with them.
