Maratha term commonly has two usages - firstly for various castes of successors of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who founded the Maratha empire in 17th century and another for community from Marathi speaking region. Maratha regiment is the most oldest and renowned regiment of Indian Army named after this community. Right from inception, Maratha is strongly present in ministry and state government in Maharashtra.
The Maratha marriage ceremony is full of pomp and show exhibiting magnificent grandeur. The matrimony traditions and rituals are very interesting and colorful. The pre wedding ceremony consists of Sakhar Puda ceremony, Kuldevta, Simant Puja and Halad Chadavane followed by ceremonies like Antarpat, Sankalp ceremony, Kanyadaan, Vivaah homa and Saptapadi (Phera) ritual in front of the holy fire. The post wedding ceremony comprises of Grihpravesh where the bride and groom are welcomed with great warmth and love followed by Satyanarayan Puja. Typically, Maratha matrimony takes place in the morning.
