Review of Hindu Wedding Rituals
- Claudia Angelucci
- Previous Member of the Month
- Posts: 463
- Joined: 04 Aug 2023, 15:21
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 149
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-claudia-angelucci.html
- Latest Review: Brothers Bound by Bruce K. Berger
Review of Hindu Wedding Rituals
Beautifully unfolding in rich, ancient traditions, vibrant rituals, and symbolic gestures, Dr. A.V. Srinivasan's 'Hindu Wedding Rituals' encapsulates the beauty of a Hindu wedding. The book serves as a valuable guide, providing a clear explanation of the fundamental procedures of the Vedic Wedding Ceremony while highlighting their cultural and philosophical significance. Renowned for his vast expertise in Vedic and interfaith weddings, the author notes that Hindu weddings in India typically skip rehearsals, in contrast to the organized approach favored by North American couples.
The ceremony commences with sacred mantras, extending heartfelt greetings to the groom's family and friends. Rooted in Hindu traditions emphasizing dharma (right conduct), artha (financial aspects), kama (aesthetic aspects), and moksha (liberation), it concludes with blessings from the officiator, families, and the assembled audience. Noteworthy rituals, such as Kanyadanam, symbolize the union as the bride's mother consecrates it by pouring water over a coconut, marking the transition to a new family. The profound significance of the mangalsutra (golden necklace) is underscored as it becomes the principal bond between the bride and groom in this meaningful ceremony.
The book's charming photos capture colorful attire and the solemn, joyful atmosphere, enhancing visual appeal. The inclusion of Sanskrit mantras and blessings, presented in transliteration and translation, makes it a practical guide for those with basic Sanskrit understanding. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone preparing for a Hindu wedding—it is essential for couples embracing cross-cultural unions.
Immersing myself in this book was a joy as it unveiled the intricacies of this lively ceremony. Understanding the depth behind the chants and blessings added a profound dimension to my appreciation. The author's descriptions skillfully portrayed the celebrations, capturing the overall sensory experience—a genuine celebration of emotions and senses. Dr. A.V. Srinivasan's clear and accessible explanations elevate the overall lucidity of the content. Worth highlighting is his authorship of 'Hinduism for Dummies,' showcasing a consistent commitment to making this subject accessible to all.
While reading the book, I noticed minor punctuation issues and a few errors. Although these don't significantly affect the overall clarity, I would deduct a star from my rating. I rate 'Hindu Wedding Rituals' 4 out of 5 stars. The writing is clear, but refining sentence structures through editing could enhance the flow and elevate this book to a well-deserved 5-star status.
******
Hindu Wedding Rituals
View: on Bookshelves
- Gerry Steen
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 2702
- Joined: 08 May 2023, 20:08
- Favorite Book: Life Shattered
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 462
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gerry-steen.html
- Latest Review: Red Spy in Harbin by Mark Oulton

- Claudia Angelucci
- Previous Member of the Month
- Posts: 463
- Joined: 04 Aug 2023, 15:21
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 149
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-claudia-angelucci.html
- Latest Review: Brothers Bound by Bruce K. Berger
Thank you very much, Gerry. I've never been to a Hindu wedding; I hope I'll get invited to one eventually!Gerry Steen wrote: ↑27 Dec 2023, 11:22 Hi, Claudia, you did a well-written and concise review of this book. The Hindu wedding rituals are beautiful. I know because my daughter married a Hindu gentleman. I wish I had read this book before the wedding so that I would have had a complete understanding of the events as they unfolded. Have a great day.![]()
Thank you again, and you too, have a lovely day.
- Gerry Steen
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 2702
- Joined: 08 May 2023, 20:08
- Favorite Book: Life Shattered
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 462
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-gerry-steen.html
- Latest Review: Red Spy in Harbin by Mark Oulton
You are welcome, Claudia. I am going to add this book to my bookshelves. Ciao for now.Claudia Angelucci wrote: ↑27 Dec 2023, 12:25Thank you very much, Gerry. I've never been to a Hindu wedding; I hope I'll get invited to one eventually!Gerry Steen wrote: ↑27 Dec 2023, 11:22 Hi, Claudia, you did a well-written and concise review of this book. The Hindu wedding rituals are beautiful. I know because my daughter married a Hindu gentleman. I wish I had read this book before the wedding so that I would have had a complete understanding of the events as they unfolded. Have a great day.![]()
I'll be prepared. I've seen pictures and videos and always thought they were absolutely beautiful ceremonies – from the dresses to the flowers and dancing. Not to mention the food! It's a fantastic culture. Best wishes to your daughter. The book is very interesting; if you get the chance, read it. It was a shame the writing wasn't polished. I mean, there were minor errors, but there were too many of them, more than 10.
Thank you again, and you too, have a lovely day.

- Xatal
- Posts: 1
- Joined: 20 Dec 2023, 05:12
- Bookshelf Size: 0
-
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 264
- Joined: 06 Sep 2022, 11:17
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 66
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-aleena-augustine.html
- Latest Review: The Pursuit of Happiness by Paul Lucas Scott
- Claudia Angelucci
- Previous Member of the Month
- Posts: 463
- Joined: 04 Aug 2023, 15:21
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 149
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-claudia-angelucci.html
- Latest Review: Brothers Bound by Bruce K. Berger
Thank you very much, Aleena! It is a lovely, curious, little book indeed, especially for people who are preparing for a Hindu wedding—a simple and straightforward guide. Such a shame it wasn't edited properly.Aleena Augustine wrote: ↑29 Dec 2023, 09:42 Claudia, your review of "Hindu Wedding Rituals" paints a vivid picture of the book's cultural richness and practical value. The detailed explanations and inclusion of Sanskrit make it sound like an engaging and informative guide. Great job on the review!
Thank you again! All the best!
- Francis Kapola
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 416
- Joined: 10 Aug 2021, 10:35
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 62
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-francis-kapola.html
- Latest Review: Enlightenment for the Things that Really Matter by Mark Gumbrell
- Cara Wilding
- Book of the Month Participant
- Posts: 679
- Joined: 09 Aug 2023, 12:30
- Favorite Book: Sierra Six
- Currently Reading: Global Vice
- Bookshelf Size: 101
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cara-wilding.html
- Latest Review: Family Business by James Jack Fauser
Claudia, this looks like an interesting book. It made me think of a trip to Iceland, where the native people were becoming very concerned about losing their culture and language over time with immigration. Did the author share what made him write this book? I was surprised to see that there are no rehearsals; that seems stressful. One chance to get it right! What made you pick up this selection?! I enjoyed reading your review; thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on this one with us! Until next time...Claudia Angelucci wrote: ↑26 Dec 2023, 09:53 [Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Hindu Wedding Rituals" by Dr. A.V. Srinivasan.]
Beautifully unfolding in rich, ancient traditions, vibrant rituals, and symbolic gestures, Dr. A.V. Srinivasan's 'Hindu Wedding Rituals' encapsulates the beauty of a Hindu wedding. The book serves as a valuable guide, providing a clear explanation of the fundamental procedures of the Vedic Wedding Ceremony while highlighting their cultural and philosophical significance. Renowned for his vast expertise in Vedic and interfaith weddings, the author notes that Hindu weddings in India typically skip rehearsals, in contrast to the organized approach favored by North American couples.
The book's charming photos capture colorful attire and the solemn, joyful atmosphere, enhancing visual appeal. The inclusion of Sanskrit mantras and blessings, presented in transliteration and translation, makes it a practical guide for those with basic Sanskrit understanding. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone preparing for a Hindu wedding—it is essential for couples embracing cross-cultural unions.

- Claudia Angelucci
- Previous Member of the Month
- Posts: 463
- Joined: 04 Aug 2023, 15:21
- Currently Reading:
- Bookshelf Size: 149
- Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-claudia-angelucci.html
- Latest Review: Brothers Bound by Bruce K. Berger
Thank you very much, Cara! The author directs the Vedic Institute of Connecticut. He hosts workshops on Vedic weddings, Sanskrit chants, and Hindu rituals. He is well-known for his nationwide Hindu and interfaith weddings. So, he is on a mission to keep this rich cultural heritage alive! He pointed out that Indian people in the West are a bit surprised when attending Indian weddings in India because they find them a bit chaotic, given their improvisational nature. Personally, I like improvisation!Cara Wilding wrote: ↑30 Dec 2023, 08:08Claudia, this looks like an interesting book. It made me think of a trip to Iceland, where the native people were becoming very concerned about losing their culture and language over time with immigration. Did the author share what made him write this book? I was surprised to see that there are no rehearsals; that seems stressful. One chance to get it right! What made you pick up this selection?! I enjoyed reading your review; thanks so much for sharing your thoughts on this one with us! Until next time...Claudia Angelucci wrote: ↑26 Dec 2023, 09:53 [Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Hindu Wedding Rituals" by Dr. A.V. Srinivasan.]
Beautifully unfolding in rich, ancient traditions, vibrant rituals, and symbolic gestures, Dr. A.V. Srinivasan's 'Hindu Wedding Rituals' encapsulates the beauty of a Hindu wedding. The book serves as a valuable guide, providing a clear explanation of the fundamental procedures of the Vedic Wedding Ceremony while highlighting their cultural and philosophical significance. Renowned for his vast expertise in Vedic and interfaith weddings, the author notes that Hindu weddings in India typically skip rehearsals, in contrast to the organized approach favored by North American couples.
The book's charming photos capture colorful attire and the solemn, joyful atmosphere, enhancing visual appeal. The inclusion of Sanskrit mantras and blessings, presented in transliteration and translation, makes it a practical guide for those with basic Sanskrit understanding. I wholeheartedly recommend it for anyone preparing for a Hindu wedding—it is essential for couples embracing cross-cultural unions.
![]()
He wrote this book to help people get prepared so the ceremony runs smoothly without interruptions. The book is short but very detailed; there is even a list of the wedding materials for the ceremony. It comes with a CD with all the wedding chants too. (We reviewers don't get the CD, though!
All the best!