In a traditional Bengali wedding, the turmeric ceremony held before the main marriage rites is called gaye holud.
Gaye holud means “yellowing of the body.” During the event, relatives and friends apply turmeric paste to the bride or groom, often beginning with a ceremonial portion sent from one side of the family to the other. The bright yellow color is associated with auspiciousness, cleanliness, and the festive character of the marriage.
The ceremony is usually accompanied by food, music, gifts, and family gatherings. In Bangladesh and West Bengal, customs vary between communities, and the bride’s and groom’s gaye holud may be held separately or combined into a larger celebration.
Gaye holud is not the wedding ceremony itself. It is a pre-wedding event, while the main Bengali marriage rites include rituals such as the bride’s entrance, exchanges, vows, and the sacred fire in traditions that follow Hindu practice.