Saptapadī — the seven steps
The couple take seven steps together, often to the north-east, stepping on small heaps of rice. Following the Gṛhya Sūtras, each step carries a prayer: (1) for food and nourishment; (2) for strength; (3) for wealth and prosperity; (4) for happiness; (5) for cattle and livelihood — often explained today as children and family; (6) for the seasons, a life in harmony with time; and (7) for friendship — “be my friend with these seven steps.”
The last step makes the bond one of lifelong friendship (sakhya). In law, too, the saptapadī is significant: under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, where the rites include it, the marriage becomes complete on the seventh step.
Seven steps = friendship · Hindu Marriage Act, 1955