by Christobel Rajesh

Created on: April 22, 2008   Last Updated: May 24, 2010

A vow renewal marriage ceremony is celebrated on the couple's 25th or 50th anniversary. Isn't it something great to celebrate the joy of togetherness that endured over 25 and 50 years? This ceremony is usually arranged by the couple's children and the ceremony goes on as a normal wedding. Here, the children get a chance to see their parent's wedding and happiness, and show their love and gratitude for everything their parents have done in their lives.

This vow renewal ceremony is traditionally a Hindu occasion, but the couples of other religion also celebrate this great day now a days. The children select an auspicious day with the help of a priest. Once the day is finalized, they invite all their relatives, friends, colleagues and well wishers to come and bless their parents. Some children keep this as a surprise party, but many parents come to know when everything is being arranged.

The vow renewal ceremony takes place either in the couple's house, or temple, or sometimes even in party halls. The place is well decorated with flowers and scents. The decorations and attire completely depends up on the couple's religion, interest and affordability. The couple is dressed in their best clothes which is usually silk saree women), and silk shirt and dhoti (men). The stage is specially arranged for the couple and the priest to make poojas. The priest is invited to lead the ceremony, recite mantras and bless the couple. The couple repeat the mantras of thanksgiving and prayers for a good future, after the priest, they take oaths as they did when they were first married, followed by exchange of garlands, and tying of mangal sutra.

Once the actual ceremony is over, friends and relatives come forward to greet the couple with their gifts and blessings for a healthy long life. In turn, the host's family also give something memorable to everyone who attended the ceremony. The ceremony comes to an end with a good food. This day is a good chance for the children and the grand children of the couple to receive great gifts from their parents or grand parents.

To conclude, it is better for each and everyone of us who are married to renew our vows now and then, especially at times of trouble in life. We need not arrange a traditional party to renew our vows, just the two of us can go to a calm place and renew vows that was taken during the wedding. The promises we made for each other will definitely bring a meaning to life.

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