Marriages in India are filled with rituals and celebration that continue for several days. The traditional Indian wedding is about two families being brought together socially, with as much emphasis placed on the families coming closer as the married couple. Traditional Indian weddings are generally structured into pre-wedding ceremonies, wedding day ceremonies and the Vidaai (send-off).

The bridge and groom are told about their duties and responsibilities in married life by the priest. These vows direct the couple to a positive path of action. They help in promoting marital happiness for a lifetime.

During kanyadaan, the bride's parents give their daughter away in marriage. The groom makes three promises - to be just (dharma), earn sufficiently to support his family (artha), and love his wife (kama). He repeats these vows thrice in the presence of Agni (the sacred fire) and all who are gathered there.