Saptapadi
The seven steps taken together around the sacred fire, which complete a Hindu marriage.
Also: seven steps, sapta padi
Saptapadi, meaning seven steps, is the central rite of a Hindu wedding: the couple take seven steps together, in the Sanskrit tradition around the sacred fire, while the priest recites a vow for each. The promises concern food and nourishment, strength, prosperity, happiness, children, long life and friendship, and wording varies by community. Under the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, the saptapadi is a required ceremony for a marriage celebrated in the Hindu form to be valid in India, where customary rites apply.
Region: South Asia