Indian weddings, in general, are an elaborate affair. If you happen to attend weddings across various parts of the Indian subcontinent, you’ll notice how each one is unique and distinctly elegant in its own way.
But what sets a Tamil wedding apart from the rest? Most would agree it’s the emphasis on rituals and traditions. Many of these customs are thousands of years old, rooted in sacred texts like the Vedas. Tamil weddings are grand events, not necessarily in extravagance, but in the importance given to elegance and simplicity.
A recurring theme in a typical Kalyanam (wedding) is the presence of red and gold. Whether in wedding decor, the outfits worn by the bride, groom, and their families, or the rituals themselves, these two colours are a must. But what are these wedding rituals all about, and why is their influence so steady and relevant? Let’s find out.
1. Sumangali Prarthanai
Sumangali Prarthanai is a pre-wedding ritual dedicated to married women, or Sumangalis, who lead blissful and happy lives. This ritual also blesses the bride-to-be, praying for a prosperous and harmonious life with her future husband. Sumangalis are required to wear a 9-yard saree known as Madisar during the puja (prayer). The family ensures that the number of Sumangalis invited to the wedding is always odd. Once the puja is complete, the women are treated to a traditional South Indian meal, served on banana leaves.
2. Pallikai Thellichal
The Pallikai Thellichal is another pre-wedding ritual to bless the couple’s union. The custom involves gathering nine kinds of rice grains mixed with curd and placing them in seven separate earthen pots. These pots are beautifully decorated with colourful designs and sandalwood. They are then immersed in a water body, allowing fish to eat from them. This ritual is believed to ensure a blessed and promising married life.
3. Mangala Snaanam
Mangala Snaanam, meaning ‘purifying bath,’ takes place on the wedding day at dawn. Sacred items like turmeric, kumkum (a red pigment), and oil are applied to the bride and groom before they take their morning bath. This ritual purifies and prepares them for their wedding day.
4. Kashi Yatra
Tamil wedding rituals aren’t always serious; some involve fun and play. Kashi Yatra is one such playful ritual where the groom pretends to go on a pilgrimage to Kashi. He dresses as a pilgrim, wearing simple slippers, carrying a walking stick, and a few essentials. The bride’s father must then convince the groom to stay and marry his daughter, highlighting the advantages of the match. Naturally, the groom agrees and is then ushered to the mandap.
5. Pada Puja
Pada Puja is a ritual where the bride’s mother washes the groom’s feet with water, sandalwood essence, and kumkum. This takes place on the wedding day, symbolizing respect and welcome. Following this, the bride is ushered into the mandap.
6. Kanyadanam
Kanyadanam is similar to rituals performed in northern India, involving the bride’s father handing over his daughter to the groom. The bride sits on her father’s lap, symbolizing the care he has given her since childhood. This act seeks a promise from the groom to take care of the bride with the same love and concern.
7. Muhurtham
Muhurtham is the most important ritual, marking the couple’s union. The groom applies sindoor (kumkum) in the bride’s hair parting and ties a Mangalsutra (sacred necklace) around her neck, signifying their marriage.
8. Saptapadi
Saptapadi involves the bride and groom circling the sacred fire seven times. Each round represents a vow and promise, solidifying their commitment to each other.
9. Sammandhi Mariyathai
Sammandhi Mariyathai is one of the first post-wedding rituals, where the families of the bride and groom exchange gifts and tokens of appreciation. This ceremony signifies the union of two families and marks the bride’s transition to her new home.
10. Gruhapravesam
Gruhapravesam is the homecoming ceremony. When the bride and groom arrive at the groom’s house, the bride is welcomed by the entire family. A small aarti (puja) is performed before the couple enters the house, marking the start of their new life together.
Wrapping Up
Tamil weddings are a wholesome, joyous, and meaningful experience. Each custom and ritual has a poignant significance, making the entire celebration beautiful and unforgettable. If you’re intrigued by Tamil weddings and are looking for a life partner, explore our Tamil marriage and matrimony app. You might just find everything you’re looking for in a partner and join this beautiful tradition.