Roka Puja is a Hindu pre-wedding ritual that marks the official engagement ceremony of the bride and groom. The word "roka" comes from the Hindi word "rokna," which means to stop or prevent. The ceremony involves the exchange of gifts, the offering of prayers to the deities, and the seeking of blessings from elders and family members.
The Roka ceremony is typically held at the bride's or groom's house, or at a temple, and is usually attended by close family members and friends. The ceremony begins with the exchange of gifts, which may include sweets, fruits, clothes, jewelry, and other items. The gifts are usually presented by the groom's family to the bride's family as a token of goodwill and acceptance.
The Roka Puja ceremony involves the offering of prayers to the deities, including Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva, who are considered to be the guardians of marriage and family life. The priest or the learned person performs the puja and seeks the blessings of the deities for the couple's future.
The Roka Puja has several significances, including the following:
- Formal announcement: The Roka ceremony is a formal announcement of the couple's intention to get married. It is a public declaration that the two families have agreed to the union and that the couple is committed to each other.
- Blessings and good wishes: The Roka ceremony is an opportunity for the families and friends to offer their blessings and good wishes to the couple. The prayers and blessings seek the guidance and protection of the deities for the couple's future.
- Building relationships: The Roka ceremony is a chance for the families to build relationships and establish a bond of trust and friendship. The families get to know each other, and this lays the foundation for the future wedding festivities.
- Sign of commitment: The Roka ceremony is a sign of commitment and a promise to each other. It is the first step in the journey towards marriage, and it sets the tone for the preparations and celebrations that follow.
- Auspicious time: The Roka ceremony is usually performed during an auspicious time, such as an astrologically favorable day or a festival day. This is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple and their families.
"वक्रतुण्ड महाकाय सूर्यकोटि समप्रभ।
निर्विघ्नं कुरु मे देव सर्वकार्येषु सर्वदा॥"