The Var Ghodo, Navkar Mantra, and non-violence-centred rituals of a Jain wedding
All family and guests, seated facing the mandap. Many Jain families in Canada are Gujarati or Marwari by region, so the ceremony often shares structure with those traditions while centring Jain prayers and values.
Jain weddings are rooted in the core Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence), simplicity, and spiritual discipline, and are officiated by a Vidhikar rather than a Hindu pandit - the mantras recited invoke the Jain Tirthankaras (enlightened teachers) and the Navkar Mantra (the fundamental Jain prayer) rather than Vedic deities.
Var Ghodo - On the wedding day, the groom rides a decorated horse (or arrives in a decorated car in modern celebrations) in a procession to the venue, accompanied by dancing family and a band - similar in spirit to a Baraat.
Granthi Bandhan - The scarves or dupattas of the bride and groom are tied together, symbolising their union, before the couple proceeds to the mandap.
Kanyadaan-equivalent - The bride's father formally entrusts her to the groom, with the Vidhikar reciting Jain prayers of blessing rather than Vedic mantras.
Phere / Vow rounds - The couple takes several rounds together (practice varies by sect and family - some Jain ceremonies include a small ceremonial fire, while more austere traditions omit it in keeping with ahimsa), each round marking a vow for their married life.
Navkar Mantra recitation - Chanted at key moments to invoke blessings and remind the couple of Jain spiritual values as they begin their life together.
Throughout, the tone is typically more measured and spiritually focused than some other South Asian ceremonies, reflecting Jainism's emphasis on restraint over spectacle - though modern Canadian celebrations increasingly add a Sangeet and Mehndi alongside the core ceremony.
Bride
Often a red, maroon, or gold-embroidered saree or lehenga similar to Gujarati/Marwari bridal wear, though some families favour simpler, less ornate outfits in keeping with Jain values of restraint.
Guests
Saree, salwar kameez, or lehenga for women; kurta pyjama or sherwani for men. Bright, festive colours are welcome - avoid black and pure white.
Strict vegetarian catering (often onion- and garlic-free) is standard - ask the couple before assuming any dietary accommodations.
Jain
Digambara, Svetambara, Sthanakvasi, and Terapanth Jain families can differ meaningfully in ceremony length and which rituals are included - some sects avoid a fire ritual entirely in keeping with ahimsa, while others retain a modified version. Many Jain families are also Gujarati or Marwari by region, and blend regional customs (like the Var Ghodo) with Jain religious content. It is worth asking the couple which traditions their family follows.
Gift expected at this event
Cash gifts are given at the ceremony and reception, similar to Gujarati custom - odd denominations remain traditional.
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