The word ‘Mameru’ is derived from Mama, which means maternal uncle. In a traditional Mameru ceremony, just a few days before the main wedding the maternal uncle (mama) of the bride 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 which are beautifully presented in trousseau trays. This symbolises the mama’s or the maternal family’s well-wishes for the to-be bride before she embarks on a new journey in life. This ceremony generally takes place at the bride or groom’s house, before their wedding.
The ‘Mameru’ ceremony is also called ‘Mausalu’ sometimes, wherein the Mausa (maternal uncle) brings gifts and sweets for the bride-to-be.
The ceremony is a beautiful depiction of the importance of the extended family in Gujarati weddings. They serve not only as a way to shower the couple with love and well-wishes but also give the extended family a chance to get together and celebrate the wedding.
Considering the vast cultures seen in India, there are many such traditions which are followed in different parts of the country. Here we mention some of them.