The Gaye Holud - A Bengali Wedding Tradition

What is a Gaye Holud?

Written from my limited understanding as a westerner having attended this extremely special auspicious occasion: a Gaye Holud is a Bengali wedding tradition, typically taking place in the days before the wedding ceremony. Close family and friends gather to give blessings and celebrate by (amongst other things) putting a paste made from tumeric onto the bride and groom!

The turmeric is thought to have both medicinal and cosmetic benefit helping the bride and groom to 'glow.' Guests take it in turns to smear the paste on the grooms hands and face while giving blessings which is both joyous and emotional to watch. The turmeric paste is then sent to the bride where the ritual takes place again.

Why so much Yellow at the Gaye Holud?

The colour yellow is generally considered to be auspicious and the Gaye Holud is an explosion of bright yellow hues with oranges and reds. The turmeric paste is yellow as are the decorations, flowers and outfits making the event a feast for the eyes.

Do other regions celebrate Gaye Holud?

I had a chat with some of my friends who have Indian descent who had similar ceremonies at their weddings called a 'Haldi' or a 'Pithe' where turmeric was applied to their skin. The turmeric application makes for fabulous photos!

Safe to say I was just thrilled to be a part of this special day for Sudipto and his family and friends and excited to learn more about the rich culture and traditions that surround these weddings.

A Gaye Holud isn’t just about the ceremony itself—it’s a vibrant celebration of love, family, and tradition. The energy of the event is infectious, with music, dancing, and the playful smearing of turmeric symbolising joy and prosperity for the couple. Every detail, from the brightly coloured sarees and kurta sets to the intricate floral jewellery worn by the bride, adds to the visual richness of the day. As a wedding photographer, capturing these moments means focusing not only on the big traditions but also on the small, intimate interactions—the laughter shared between family members, the pride in the parents' eyes, and the anticipation between the bride and groom as they prepare for the next chapter of their journey.

The beauty of a Gaye Holud lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether it’s friends and relatives applying turmeric with giggles and good-natured teasing or elders offering their heartfelt blessings, every element is infused with warmth and meaning. The combination of candid, unposed moments and carefully composed portraits creates a stunning visual narrative that tells the couple’s unique story. It’s these authentic, joy-filled interactions that make Gaye Holud photography so special, and why I loved documenting this event.

It has simply been the joy of my photography career to meet and immerse myself in the lives of all of my clients and I look forward to being able to continue to do so.

A group shot of all the friends and family

Celebrating your wedding in the UK and looking for an event photographer? Are you having a Gaye Holud or another ceremony in Hampshire, Surrey or London? I'd love to have a chat about covering your event! Get in touch here.

Love Cat