Hills' Unique Wedding Custom: 'Gudda-Guddi' Become In-Laws, Bridging Families

• Pithoragarh's Devbhoomi culture features a unique wedding ritual where 'Gudda-Guddi' (dough dolls) represent 'Samdhi-Samdhan' (in-laws).
• Historically, these dolls were made from dough due to limited market availability, symbolizing the bride and groom's parents.
• The ritual's purpose is to break the ice between new families, fostering laughter and strengthening bonds through symbolic exchange.
• While modern weddings now use market-bought dolls, the essence of love and affection in this tradition remains intact.
• Village elder Hemwanti Devi emphasizes the ritual's enduring value in preserving hill culture and relationships.