A traditional wedding is arranged by Ghotoks (matchmakers), who are generally friends,relatives of the couple,or sometimes even mere professionals. The matchmakers facilitate the introduction,and are given special gifts known as Ghotokbidae(bidding goodbye to the Ghotoks).
Bengali weddings are traditionally in four parts: the ‘gaye holud, the wedding ceremony called Bibahobashor, and the reception known as Bou-bhaat. These take place on separate days. The first event in a wedding is Ashirvaad,where the elders of both families assemble to bless the bride and groom to-be with gifts of gold,silken clothes and dhan-durbo(husked rice and a special grass),signifying wealth,prosperity and well-being.The groom and bride may as well exchange rings,but this is not a part of the traditional Bengali wedding however.This marks the beginning of the elaborate wedding rituals.
