A cord is tied around the couple’s necks by the elders in the family to, which is known as varmala. The Varmala Ceremony takes place after the Barat reach at the bride’s mandap and also signifies the start of the wedding rituals. Like most Indian wedding ceremonies, flowers play an important part in both wedding decorations and rituals. Varmala’s consist of a variety of colorful flowers that also adorn the Mandap and wedding venue. It is a significant moment during the wedding ceremony when the bride and groom exchange floral garlands. Roses, carnations, marigolds, and orchids are all used to create the garlands used for the ceremony. The flowers represent excitement, happiness, and beauty – all tied together on a string signifying the
marital union. This ritual signifies their acceptance of each other as life partners and is met with cheers and joy from the guests. Modern Mala’s can consist of dollar bills, an offering of good luck to the couple.