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Jamai Shashti is celebrated as the Son-in-Law Day,
in the city of Kolkata. Jamai Shashti is commonly celebrated in the
month of June. The auspicious day is dedicated to the son-in-law and
hence the name Jamai Shashti. The day is actually a party thrown by
the in-laws for the welfare of their daughter and her husband. The
occasion has long been a part and parcel of the local customs of
West Bengal state. Practiced mostly by Hindu families, the festival
is marked by services rendered by the in-laws. It is more like a
ceremony and party time for the son's in law.
On the occasion of Jamai Shashti the in-laws invite their daughter
and son-in law for the celebration of the occasion. The primary role
is played by mother-in-law, who can be seen busy throughout the
occasion, performing rites and serving the son-in-law. The occasion
is meant to bring the couple, especially the son-in-law (Jamai)
closer to the family. As such it is a family festival and aimed to
further secure the family ties.
The party starts with the greeting of Jamai with gifts, sweets and
fruits. The entry is followed by performing rites, wherein the
mother-in-law sanctifies the occasion by touching the forehead of
Jamai with a thala (plate) containing six fruits. It is followed by
tying a thread band on the head and on the right hand wrist of
Jamai. The thread prior to its tying is being applied with turmeric.
The thread is called as Shashti Suto and is beleived to have the
blessing of Ma Shashti, the divine protector of children. Once the
rituals are performed, the guests are then served with food and
delicacies. It is a feast, no - a grand feast! The menu for the
occasion contains the best recipes and dishes prepared by the
in-laws. The rest of the occasion is spent as a live interaction
among all the members. Jamai Shashti is an occasion of honor and
respect in Kolkata, a representation of family values.
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