What Is a Mayian Ceremony? A Photographer’s First Hand Look
There’s something really special about being invited into a new culture and photographing Victor’s Mayian ceremony was exactly that. It was my first time attending an Indian wedding and more specifically a Punjabi prewedding tradition that honestly left me speechless. If you’ve never experienced one let me take you through what it felt like to witness and photograph it all.
What Is a Mayian Ceremony?
The Mayian also spelled Maiyan or Maiya is a vibrant prewedding ceremony in Punjabi culture. Usually held a day or two before the wedding it’s a time when family and close friends gather to bless the bride or groom. It’s both spiritual and celebratory. Think soulful traditions with a side of nonstop music and dancing.
I learned that the heart of the ceremony is all about preparing the couple mind body and spirit for their new life ahead. But honestly it also felt like a fullblown party where everyone shows up to love on the person getting married.
The Vatna Ritual A Golden Glow and a Fresh Start
During Victor’s Mayian he sat in the center while guests came up one by one to apply a golden paste called vatna. It’s made from turmeric flour and mustard oil and is said to cleanse and bless the skin. Watching his loved ones take turns you could feel the intention in every gesture.
There was laughter little jokes and a few sweet emotional moments and as a photographer these candid interactions were gold. It’s more than just a beauty ritual. Vatna symbolizes purification and a fresh start. Pretty poetic right?
A Shift in the Air From Ceremony to Celebration
Once everyone had their turn with the vatna the entire mood shifted. Dhol drums kicked in. Someone grabbed a mic. And the next thing I knew there was spontaneous dancing breaking out all around.
I kept the camera rolling of course but I was also smiling the whole time. It’s moments like these that remind me how weddings are just as much about community as they are about two people. You don’t just witness support you feel it.
Why I’ll Always Remember This Mayian Ceremony
Victor’s Mayian wasn’t just an event to shoot it was something I felt lucky to experience. It reminded me how powerful it is when people come together around love and tradition. It’s also a huge reason why I do what I do. Every wedding is unique every culture brings its own richness and I get a front row seat to it all.
So thank you Victor and your incredible family for trusting me to be there and for welcoming me into such a meaningful space.
FAQs About the Mayian Ceremony
What happens during a Mayian ceremony
The main ritual is the vatna where a turmeric based paste is applied to the bride or groom. It’s followed by blessings singing and dancing. It typically takes place at home or at a family venue.
Is the Mayian ceremony part of all Indian weddings
Nope not all Indian weddings include a Mayian. It’s specific to Punjabi and Sikh traditions though some Hindu weddings may have similar customs with different names.
What should guests wear to a Mayian
Colorful traditional Indian attire is always welcome. Think vibrant salwar kameez or kurta pajamas. But more than anything wear something you can move in. Dancing is pretty much guaranteed.
Can a photographer attend even if they’re not part of the culture
Absolutely. Just come with respect curiosity and a love for real candid moments. Trust me your camera will thank you.
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