Jamai Sashti is an important ritual observed in Bengal . Here is a brief description on how to observe
Jamai Sashti. Please note that what to do and what not to do and the small
details of the ritual varies from region to region. In some regions, the
mother-in-law and son-in-law exchange gifts. In some regions, only the
son-in-law brings the gifts.
The ritual is meant to help in the bonding of the son-in-law
(Jamai) and the in laws.
On the sixth day during the waxing phase of moon in Jyeshta
month, daughter and son-in-law is invited to the home.
The mother-in-law welcomes the son-in-law. She carries a
thali – puja plate. It contains darbha or kusha grass, uncooked rice, five
types of fruits, yellow thread and curd.
She sprinkles the rice and grass on the son-in-law and
blesses him. She makes a mark on the forehead with curd and ties the yellow
thread.
Food is the most important part of the ritual. A
sumptuous meal is arranged and it includes the best delicacies the
mother-in-law can make. The meal also consists of the delicacies that the
son-in-law loves. Fish is an important food on the menu.