Significance Behind the Performance of the Sapta Padi
The significance behind the performance of the Sapta padi ritual during a traditional Hindu marriage in India is that the bride and the groom take few vows as they go around the sacred fire. At the time of this ritual the groom with his right hand holds the brides' right hand and also walk to the right side of the sacred fire. He stops, bends down and holds the right toe of his wife with his right hand and helps her take seven steps around the fire. At the beginning of each round they go through the sacred fire they recite a sacred mantra thereby invoking the blessings of Maha Vishnu.
Wedded Couple Go Around the Sacred Fire Seven Times
-Just before the couple take their move to go around the Agni Dev the bride's sari is tied to the groom's kurta or shawl which falls from his shoulder. As the priest chants the mantras the wedded couple go around the sacred fire seven times for the seven blessings by taking a vow for a strong commitment throughout their life. Thus by walking around the Agni they agree to all the commands. As they take each round they will have to throw small bits of puffed rice into the fire, representing prosperity in their new life together.This ritual is also followed by the Sikhs in India where they walk around the Guru Granth Sahib.
The Sapta Padi indicates the following:
To not separate from each other.
To be one mind in carrying out their responsibilities as householders.
To love and cherish each other with enriched nourishment and maintain a good health.
To discharge the duties according to the Vedas to their elders, ancestors, rishis, creatures, and gods.
To have their aspirations united forever.
To the groom to be as the upper world or Bhumi and the bride to be the mother earth.
To be the mind and speech respectively.