The word ‘Mameru’ is derived from Mama, meaning maternal uncle. In a traditional Mameru ceremony, just a few days before the main wedding, the bride’s maternal uncle (mama) visits her with gifts, dry fruits and sweets. The gifts given to the bride on this occasion traditionally include a Panetar saree, ivory or white chura (bangles), gold jewellery, sweets and dry fruits beautifully presented in dowry trays. This symbolises the mother’s or the maternal family’s good wishes to the bride-to-be before she starts her new life. This ceremony usually takes place at the bride’s or groom’s house before their wedding.

The ‘Mameru’ ceremony is sometimes called ‘Mausalu’, where the Mausa (maternal uncle) brings gifts and sweets to the bride-to-be.

The ceremony is a beautiful depiction of the importance of extended family in Gujarati weddings. It not only serves as a way to shower the couple with love and well-wishes, but also gives the extended family a chance to come together and celebrate the wedding.

Considering the vast cultures seen in India, there are many traditions followed in different parts of the country. Here we will mention some of them.