Bridal Chambers of the Baba's

An important aspect of the Baba wedding is the preparation for the bridal chamber , which are in two parts - the actual decoration as well as the blessing ,of the bridal bed itself . All the items connected to the chambers are changed for new ones. The bed sheets, mattress , curtains ,carpet , embroidered , tapestry , and bed hangings will be painstakingly prepared. Sweet-smelling flower, setanggi (local incense) and finely sliced  pandan leaves will be placed all around the bridal chambers

The bridal bed on display is called the Ranjang Tok San, and will be a part of the bridal chambers . The bed itself is not a single piece but is made of two separate beds , placed close together . The front is a bench-like bed , with a double bed attached  to it . Both beds will be elaborately decorated with sillk curtains and embroidered hangings ,luxurious mattress and pillows in silver and gold- plated covers .Two red charis covered with embroidered velvet cloth will be placed in front of the bed. The chairs and bench are for the couple to have a conversation, sometimes taking days before touching each other.

Cleaning the bridal bed is a symbolic ritual to ask for wealth, longevity and fertility. A comb of banana, some lemongrass leaves and yam are placed in an earthen pot under the bed together with a container of lighted setanggi joss sticks on a bed of sand. Then, the incense will be lighted in the bridal chambers, which will now be guarded every day.

The ‘cleansing’ and blessing of the chambers will take place on a chosen day and time, and it is performed by a boy who will roll on the bed back and forth three times. After this, the chambers are closely guarded to prevent anyone or anything considered unclean from entering it until the wedding couple enters it.