In Sanatan Dharma, marriage is considered not just a social contract but a sacred union of two souls and two families. This is why Indian weddings include numerous rituals meant to bless the couple’s new journey. One such unique custom, especially prevalent in Uttar Pradesh and parts of North India, is the tradition of the bride carrying a special gift box (baksā) for her mother-in-law.
This ceremonial box traditionally includes sarees, cosmetics, sweets, and other thoughtful household gifts chosen specifically for the groom’s mother. More than the items inside, the box symbolizes respect, acceptance, and warmth from the new bride as she enters her marital home.
A Bond Filled With Emotions: The Mother-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law Relationship
In Indian weddings, both the bride’s mother and the groom’s mother hold significant emotional roles. While the bride’s mother sends her daughter off with blessings and tears, the mother-in-law welcomes the young woman into her home and her family.
The relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law has always been considered special—sometimes bittersweet, sometimes deeply affectionate, but always tied to strong emotions. The baksā ritual is seen as a gesture that initiates this bond on a positive note.
The Ritual: A Box Sent with Love and Respect
After the wedding rituals conclude and the bride’s vidaai takes place, this special box is formally sent for the groom’s mother. In many families, the bride personally presents it to her mother-in-law upon arrival.
Touching her feet and receiving blessings, the bride expresses her willingness to honor the family’s traditions and to seek the guidance of the elder woman as she begins her married life.
A Gesture That Strengthens Family Ties
The items inside the box—clothes, makeup essentials, sweets, and small delicacies—are carefully selected to bring joy to the mother-in-law. By offering these gifts, the bride conveys her respect and affection, while the mother-in-law, in return, blesses her with a harmonious and prosperous married life.
This gesture is believed to strengthen emotional ties and foster trust between the two.
A Tradition Linked With Blessings and Good Fortune
In Hindu culture, a newly arrived married woman is considered the Lakshmi of the household—bringing prosperity, peace, and good fortune. Offering a special box to the mother-in-law reflects the bride’s humility, goodwill, and intention to nurture relationships in her new home.
It is believed that presenting this box earns the bride blessings and spiritual merit, ensuring happiness and harmony in her conjugal life.
More than a ritual, this cherished custom represents love, respect, and the beautiful foundation of family relationships in Indian weddings.
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