सखा सप्त पदी भव
सख्यं ते गमेयं
सख्यं ते मा योषाः
सख्यं ते मा योष्ठाः

With these seven steps you have become my friend
May I deserve your friendship
May my friendship make me one with you
May your friendship make you one with me

-Saptapadi, The seven steps of Vedic wedding

The Vedas proclaim that fulfillment in life is reached when one accomplishes its four primary aspects - dharma, artha, kāma and moksha. Although Dharma is the core of Indian sprituality, the inclusion of artha (financial aspect) and kama (aspects of love) in Sanātana Dharma, confirms the practicality of Vedic thought. The basis for the Indian marriage is friendship - the understanding, the promise and the commitment that unites a man and a woman.