Lonavala, with its lush hills, cool weather, and luxury resorts, is one of the most loved locations for destination weddings near Pune and Mumbai. But what truly makes a wedding meaningful is not just the décor it’s the traditions that connect families, culture, and emotion.
If you are planning a destination wedding in Lonavala and want to include authentic Maharashtrian wedding rituals, you absolutely can and they blend beautifully with the natural backdrop of the hills.
Here is a complete guide to the most important Maharashtrian rituals you can include to make your Lonavala wedding traditional, soulful, and unforgettable.
1. Sakharpuda Ceremony (Engagement Ritual)
This is the traditional Marathi engagement.
What Happens:
- The groom’s family gives sugar (sakhar) and gifts to the bride
- Marks the formal acceptance of the marriage proposal
- Often done as a pre-wedding function or even on the same day
How to Include It:
- Hold it as a welcome ceremony at the resort
- Use traditional Paithani trays, sweets, and floral décor
2. Haldi Ceremony with Turmeric & Flowers
In Marathi weddings, Haldi is applied with mangalsutra-colored threads and turmeric mixed with sandalwood.
Lonavala Twist:
- Poolside haldi with marigold showers
- Yellow décor against greenery
- Folk music with dhol beats
3. Ganesh Poojan
No Maharashtrian wedding starts without praying to Lord Ganesha.
- Can be done at the venue just before pheras
- Use brass lamps, banana leaves, and modaks for offerings
4. Antarpat Ritual (Bride & Groom Separation Cloth)
A silk cloth is held between the bride and groom as mantras are chanted.
- Moment of suspense
- Cloth lifts at the sacred time (muhurta)
- Beautiful photo moment!
5. Mangalashtak Recitation
Sacred verses sung during the wedding ceremony.
- Traditional Marathi singers can perform live
- Adds spiritual and cultural depth
6. Mangalsutra Tying & Kunku Ceremony
The groom ties a black-beaded gold Mangalsutra around the bride’s neck.
The bride applies kumkum to the groom’s forehead in return.
This is the emotional heart of the Marathi marriage.
7. Saptapadi (Seven Steps)
Bride and groom take seven steps around the holy fire, promising:
- Happiness
- Health
- Wealth
- Faith
- Love
- Family
- Togetherness
8. Varat & Grihapravesh
After pheras, the bride leaves with the groom in a traditional procession (Varat).
At arrival, the groom’s family welcomes her with a Grihapravesh ritual a beautiful finish to the wedding story.
9. Dhol-Tasha & Lezim Performance
To give your Lonavala wedding a powerful Marathi flavor:
- Arrange a Dhol-Tasha Pathak (traditional percussion group)
- Add Lezim folk dance performers for energetic baraat entries
They create goosebumps moments guests never forget.
10. Traditional Maharashtrian Wedding Feast
Complete the experience with:
- Puran Poli
- Masale Bhaat
- Aamras
- Kothimbir Vadi
- Sol Kadhi
- Basundi or Shrikhand
You can serve it:
- Traditional banana leaf thali style
- OR modern buffet with live counters
Why Lonavala Is Perfect for These Rituals
- Outdoor mandaps look stunning against mountain backdrops
- Cool breeze makes pheras comfortable
- Resorts provide space for rituals + modern guest comfort
- Cultural traditions feel more intimate in nature-rich surroundings
Final Thought
A destination wedding in Lonavala doesn’t mean you have to skip tradition.
In fact, Marathi rituals blend beautifully with the scenic elegance of Lonavala, giving your ceremony a soulful royal charm.
By including these rituals, you give your wedding meaning, heritage, and emotional depth something your guests will remember forever.
