Haldi or turmeric is a root and when dried and ground to powder, gives off yellow color. The Haldi ceremony is organized a day before the actual wedding according to Indian custom. The Haldi ceremony takes place a day or so before the wedding ceremony. Turmeric (haldi), rosewater, and sandalwood are mixed into a paste that is applied on both the bride and groom by their female relatives and friends. The ceremony is considered auspicious and is meant to purify both bride and groom before the big day. Because of the medicinal properties, it’s like a mini-facial/body scrub the day before the wedding. This ceremony is also known as ‘Pithi’. The bride wears any yellow color wardrobe. The groom and bride dress in their fineries and are surrounded by all members of the family and friends. This ceremony is followed so that the bride and groom get a sparkling fair skin on the day of marriage.
Once the mehndi and haldi are applied, the bride-to-be is forbidden to leave the house until the wedding ceremony.