Shoes According to Wedding Traditions Across India

East India

●  Bengali and Odia grooms often wear chappals or pattis, which are simple yet traditional.

●  Brides wear footwears like bridal heels that blends well with their sarees, keeping in line with the overall wedding look.

●  Some Bengali weddings have a ritual where the groom removes his old shoes before stepping into the wedding mandap, symbolising a fresh start.

Wedding Rituals Involving Footwear

Shoes play an important role in many wedding customs across India. Some traditions are fun and playful, while others hold deep meaning.

Joota Chhupai - North India

●  A lighthearted custom where the bride’s sisters and cousins take the groom’s shoes when he enters the venue.

●  The groom must negotiate or offer money to get them back.

Grihapravesh with Shoes - North & South India

●  When the bride enters her new home, she may wear her husband’s shoes or knock over a pot of rice with her foot as a sign of prosperity.

●  In some South Indian traditions, the groom carries the bride over the threshold to prevent her feet from touching the ground.

Madhuparka Ceremony - Maharashtra

●  The groom is welcomed by the bride’s family, and his feet are washed as a sign of respect.

●  His shoes are sometimes placed on a decorative plate, highlighting the importance of his arrival.

Groom’s Special Shoes - Sikh Weddings

●  Modern-day Sikh grooms are also seen wearing custom-made Indian sneakers for comfort and flair.

●  In some families, the bride’s father or brother helps the groom put on his shoes, showing acceptance into the family.

Modern Trends in Wedding Footwear

With changing styles, many brides and grooms mix tradition with personal preferences. Some brides now wear heels, flats, or even wedding shoes with customised embroidery or meaningful details.

Grooms are also experimenting with their footwear, adding their own sense of style while keeping traditional elements intact. Designer mojaris and embroidered loafers are some of the new choices seen in weddings today.

Cultural Significance of Bridal Footwear in Indian Weddings

Indian weddings have a blend of deep-rooted traditions and evolving trends. Footwear plays an important role in many rituals and customs. Whether it’s the playful Joota Chhupai, the symbolic shoe-removal ritual of Bengal, or the decorated mojaris of North India, wedding shoes are more than just an accessory–they hold cultural and emotional value.

As wedding fashion evolves, modern couples continue to find ways to balance tradition with personal style, making footwear an important part of their big day. Brides, in particular, are putting thoughtful effort into choosing the best bridal shoes that not only complement their outfits but also provide comfort throughout the ceremonies. Whether simple or heavily designed, shoes in Indian weddings remain a reflection of heritage, comfort, and celebration.