Pre-Wedding
Chunni Ceremony
ਚੁੰਨੀ
The groom’s family welcomes the bride with a red dupatta.
The groom’s family arrives at the bride’s home with a red chunni (dupatta), jewellery, outfits, and shagun. The chunni is placed on the bride’s head by her future mother-in-law — a moment of ‘welcoming her into the family’.
A little history
Before phone calls and FaceTime, the chunni ceremony was sometimes the first time the bride met her in-laws properly. It signalled that she was now considered a daughter of the new family.
Who attends
Hosted at the bride’s home. Groom’s parents, siblings, and a few close relatives travel over. Bride’s side keeps it small.
Typical guests
30–60 people
What to plan
- Red chunni (heavy embroidery, ideally matching wedding palette)
- Bridal jewellery set (one piece minimum — usually a tikka or set)
- Outfit for the bride (suit or lehenga)
- Shagun cash + dry fruits
- Tea / high-tea spread for guests
- Photographer for the chunni placement
Samaan checklist
Avoid these mistakes
- Confirm the chunni colour with the wedding palette early
- Don’t skip the photographer — this is one of the most photogenic moments
- Some families combine chunni with mangni — decide before sending invites
Ready to plan?
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