Published on: 11/23/2015IST

Anuj Tiwari Last updated on: 4/27/2016, Permalink

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Since time immemorial we have been bombarded with images of a newly-wed bride entering the bedroom with a glass of milk. Even though movies and television tend to overdo it a bit, there is some truth to the age-old custom. It is also quite scientific.

A discussion started in Quora when an individual asked "Why do Indian brides enter the bedroom with a glass of milk for the groom on the day of consummation?"
 

While many might argue that this is a custom alien to their part of the country, but the fact is that it is a custom followed in many other parts. Some good souls decided to answer this question and settle the matter once and for all.

The consumption of milk is seen as an auspicious act and marks the beginning of a blissful conjugal life

Milk plays an important role in Hindu rituals. It is considered to be a purifying agent and is used at the beginning of a number of rituals. As the bride and groom begin a conjugal life, milk marks the beginning of it; the act of consumption is seen as a mark of purification. 

It is seen as a symbol of good fortune that the bride carries to the groom's life 

As most ancient Indians were farmers, a lot of importance was placed on cattle farming. And stuff from cow dung to ghee were used on a daily basis. Milk and other dairy products could keep them afloat for a long time too. Economically stable farmers had more cattle, and in turn enjoyed all forms of dairy products. A glass of milk is, hence, seen as a symbol of wealth and good fortune that the bride brings to the groom's life. 

After what appears to be days of unending celebration and work, milk helps the tired newly-weds to relax

It is safe to say that any Indian wedding can be extremely tiring. So, when it is all wrapped up, a glass of milk comes in handy to relax the tired couple. Milk contains a sleep-inducing amino acid called Trytophan. Hence, drinking milk is a great way to unwind. It relaxes the body and enables one to have a good night's sleep. 

It is also an aphrodisiac. That is pretty much self-explanatory

The milk is usually consumed mixed with turmeric and saffron. 

Helps the newly-weds to chill, literally

Milk helps in reducing the body heat that rises during consummation. In certain parts of the country, the couple is asked to have milk everyday for the first few months. 

Great then! So that's out of the way.