In modern India, there is a growing emphasis on destination and theme weddings, where playing the latest DJ tracks has become the trend. Yet, even today, all these songs pale in comparison to the traditional wedding songs that have been sung for centuries. One such *Parichhan* song is “Nindiya ke Matal Dulha…” (The Sleepy Groom…), which is sung during weddings in the Mithila region.
What is a *Parichhan* song?
*Parichhan* (sometimes colloquially referred to as *Parchhan*) is a term associated with welcoming rituals and customs meant to ward off evil. In North India—specifically the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh and the Mithila region of Bihar—*Parichhan* is a wedding ritual performed when the *baraat* (wedding procession) arrives at the main entrance; it serves to cast off the evil eye and protect the groom from negative influences. During this time, women sing *Parichhan* songs to create a joyful atmosphere. *Parichhan* songs add vibrancy to Mithila weddings.
While there are many *Parichhan* songs in Mithila, “Nindiya ke Matal Dulha…” is considered the highlight of the celebrations. Since Mithila is the birthplace of Mother Sita, every groom in the region is viewed as an embodiment of Lord Ram, and every bride as an embodiment of Sita. Consequently, when this song is sung to welcome the *baraat*, it includes a mention of Sunaina, Mother Sita’s mother. The bride’s friends speak of the groom’s fatigue.
The song begins with the words “Naval Barba Ho…” (Oh, the new groom…), as the bride’s female friends announce the arrival of the new groom. Next comes the most beautiful and captivating line of the song—*‘Nindiya ka matal dulha jhuki-jhuki jaay he…’*—in which the female companions tease the groom, who is swaying with drowsiness after a long journey. Then, there is a mention of Mother Sita’s mother, Sunaina; the companions call out to her, urging her to come quickly and perform the *Parichhan* (ritual welcome) for the groom.
**Praising the Groom’s Beauty**
While most songs typically focus on the bride’s beauty, this particular song sees the in-laws praising the groom’s handsome appearance. They sing:
*‘Ankhiyan kajarba, bhal chananma*
*Sundar suratiya naval pahuna*
*Man mohi leta sakhi manmohana*
*Nirkhi parichhi liya parichhanma’*
In these lines, the bride’s family is mesmerized by the sight of the groom—his kohl-lined eyes, the sandalwood *tilak* on his forehead, and his enchanting presence. The entire focus of the song is on the groom; the women and companions of the bride’s family are so captivated by his appearance that they cannot help but sing his praises.
