Saptapadi

'taking together seven steps') or saat phere (Hindi: सात फेरे, romanized: sāt phéré, lit.

'seven circumambulations'), is regarded to be the most important rite (Sanskrit: rītī) of a Hindu wedding ceremony.

[1][2] The saptapadi is an ancient ritual that dates back to the Vedic period.

The circumambulation of the sacred altar of fire is a rite that is performed differently in various regions of South Asia.

[3] Vows made in the presence of the sacred fire are considered unbreakable, with Agnideva (lit.

I shall be the Samaveda, you the Rigveda, I shall be the Upper World, you the Earth; I shall be the Sukhilam, you the Holder - together we shall live and beget children, and other riches; come thou, O sweet-worded girl!In northern India, the bride and the groom say the following words after completing the seven steps:[6][7][8][9] We have taken the Seven Steps.

The process of saat phere acquires more significance in that the couple prays for the peace and well-being of the entire universe.

The bride and groom circumambulate a consecrated fire seven times, reciting specific vows with each circuit. Vows made in the presence of the sacred fire are considered unbreakable, with Agnideva held as both witnessing and blessing the couple's union.