Marriage is one of the most important moments in anyone's life. When it comes to Tamil Brahmin Iyengar weddings in India, there are so many customs and rituals associated with it right from finalising the Tamil muhurtham dates for the wedding to the post wedding celebrations. There are quite a few pre-wedding rituals conducted for the well-being of the bride and groom out of which Pandal Kaal Muhurtham takes a significant place in most Hindu weddings.
\n\nPre-Wedding Prayers
\n\nPandal Kaal Muhurtham is a pre-wedding ritual that is usually held three days before marriage. It is also one of the first rituals that kick starts the marriage celebrations. Pre-wedding prayers are offered at an auspicious time to ensure that the wedding takes place without any hindrance and is also a way to let others know that the family is hosting a wedding.
\n\nThe Process
\n\nA tall wooden or bamboo pole is erected in a corner, outside the house. The pole is decorated with banana stem and leaves, flowers and auspicious items such as turmeric and vermilion portraying fertility. Sumangalis (Married women whose husbands are still alive are called Sumangalis) are invited for this ritual as they are considered to be a representation of the Goddess of Luck, Wealth and Prosperity . The elders in the family then bless the groom and bride for a happy future together.
\n\nThe Faith
\n\nIt is believed that the familial lord resides in the pole and hence they seek its blessings for a smooth-sailing marriage and marital happiness. This ceremony is also believed to help protect the bride and groom from any evil spells.
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Sumangali is a term for a married woman whose husband is still alive. Sumangali poojai is one of the rituals that is associated with the wedding. While some families perform this pooja before the wedding (mostly in the bride’s family), there are some that conduct this pooja after the wedding, when its conducted by the bridegroom’s family. It is one of the special poojas that follows the customs of each family.
\n\nHow is the Pooja Performed?
\nThe pooja is performed in the presence of a Vedic scholar. The powerful mantras they chant bring in positive vibrations around the house.
Usually, an odd number of sumangalis are invited. (In Hindu rituals, there is a lot of significance given to odd numbers as it is an indication that the odd one is for God. There is also a belief that when you use odd numbers, the ritual is left incomplete and such similar rituals carried will be carried out in the future). The ritual is complete when the women together sing the traditional sumangali pooja songs.
\n\nThe sumangalis are invited by offering turmeric powder, kumkum, gingely oil and shikakai (Shikakai is a traditional herb powder made from the leaves, fruit pods and bark of the Acacia concinna tree) on the previous day of the pooja. They have head bath on the day of the pooja, wear nine-yard sarees and participate in the sumangali pooja. A lamp is lit and prayers are offered to the goddess. During this time, the departed souls of the family are remembered. The ritual is also a way of saying thank you to the mother and praying for her wellness.
\n\nGenerally, sumangali women wear the traditional nine yards saree. Some families have the custom of gifting blouse bits and essential make-up items like kumkum boxes, mirrors, and combs for sumangalis as return gifts for attending the ceremony. The sumangalis bless the Brahmin Iyengar bride for a happy and prosperous married life.
\n\nBenefits of performing Sumangali Pooja
\n\nFertility Ceremony
\nPallikai Thellichal is another beautiful pre wedding custom of the Tamil Iyengar Brahmin wedding. The ritual symbolises the auspicious beginning of a new family. Earthen pots are prepared the day before the ceremony. A sand bed is formed on top of which mango leaves are spread. The earthen pots are now placed on the mango leaves. Some people may wish to decorate these pots with sandalwood powder and vermillion(kumkum).
How to conduct Pallikai Thellichal Ceremony?
\nFive or seven earthen pots are decorated and kept aside for this ritual as odd number is considered auspicious. Each earthen pot is filled with curd and navadhanyas (Navadhanyas are nine different types of grains which are linked to the nine cosmic influences- Barley for the Sun, Little Millets for the Moon, Pigeon Pea for Mars, Moong Dhal for Mercury, Chickpea for Jupiter, Rice for Venus, Sesame for Saturn, Black Gram for Rahu and Horse Gram for Ketu). The grains are left in the pots to sprout.
After the grains sprout, unmarried Hindu Brahmin Iyengar girls are invited to drop these pots into the nearby water body. They wish for the fish in the water to feed on these grains.
\n\nThe Significance
\nThe significance of this ritual is that the bride and groom are compared with the sprouted grains in the pots. It is believed that when fish consume these grains, the ancestors of the family bless the couple for a long, healthy and happy life together. The sound of ladies singing traditional songs along with the music of nadhaswaram(traditional wind instrument) fill the air.
\n
The Background
\nThe Naandi ceremony is a ritual in the Tamil Iyengar wedding that is performed to please the Naandi Devtas. Referred to as Pitrus, Naandi Devtas are the ancestors who have departed. It is believed that the Pitrus lay the foundation for the creation of the physical body. Therefore, it is important to pay gratitude to the ones who created us. Not only at weddings, even during all auspicious events they are the first ones to be thanked and prayed to.
In addition to this, there is also a belief that this ceremony is performed to offer prayers to all the 33 Vedic Deities who represent splendour, knowledge, strength, truth and wealth. They are invoked to subdue evil forces and make nature benevolent. The hymns chanted during this ceremony describes the distinctive traits and individual characteristics of each Vedic God.
\n\nThe Procedure
\nDuring the beginning of this Tamil Brahmin Iyengar pre-wedding ritual, a Pipal tree along with its leaves is planted at the center of the altar and five sumangalis (married women whose husbands are still alive) come forward and wash the tree with milk. Once this worship is completed, a saree is gifted to the bride and a dhoti to the groom once they are anointed with sandal paste, turmeric powder and vermilion(kumkum). The presumption is that all the Vedic deities and ancestors arrive and witness the wedding and bless the couple for a peaceful and prosperous life together.
Nichayathartham or the Engagement ceremony is one of the Tamil Iyengar pre-wedding ceremonies where the groom and bride families come together and commit the wedding.
\n\nWhat Happens & Where
\nThough the nuances of this Tamil Brahmin Iyengar wedding ritual vary as per family traditions, the general format of the ceremony remains the same. A Vedic priest is called upon for conducting the ceremony. Earlier, it used to take place at the bride's place, but nowadays this ritual is done in the Kalyana Mandapam itself.
The Ritual
\nThe groom’s father and the bride’s father start the nichayathartham. Initially, Vigneshwara (Lord Ganesh) pooja is carried out by the bride’s father as every religious and auspicious function begins with the worship of Vigneshwara who also symbolises Brahma, the creator of life. The priest then writes the \"Lagna Patrikai” which specifies the date and time of marriage. The Lagna Patrikai is exchanged between both parents along with thamboolam which includes vethalai(betel leaf), paaku(betel nut), flowers and fruits. This serves as the commitment from both families for marriage. In most cases, the nichayathartham is conducted with close family members of both the bride and groom.
Sister-in-law Bonding
\nOnce the exchange of thamboolam is done, the bride is invited to the mandap and sits down with her father. The bride takes the blessings of her to-be father-in-law and he hands over the nichayathartham saree to her along with thamboolam. The groom’s sister takes the bride to her room to change into the Nichayathartham saree. When the bride arrives in the new saree gifted by her to-be in-laws, the groom’s sister makes her sit down, applies sandalwood paste, vermilion(kumkum) and gives her sugar. The groom’s sister will also garland the bride and bless her with flowers. Later, the groom’s sister will tie a bag filled with thamboolam and manjal onto the thalapu(end) of the saree. After taking the blessings of her to-be sister-in-law, the bride officially becomes the ‘bride’.
The Exchange of Rings
\nThe priests bless the couple by saying mantras and the traditional South Indian wedding saree and dhoti are handed over to the groom’s father. Both the bride and groom seek the blessings of the elders present. The exchange of rings takes place after the blessings. Once the ceremony is complete, sweets and dinner are served to all the relatives present.
Viratham or Vratham is an important ritual conducted by the bride and groom’s family separately in the Kalyana mandapam. It is a fast that is done usually a day before the Tamil Hindu brahmin wedding. In this ritual, both the groom and bride families fast for the prosperity and well-being of the to-be-weds. Viratham irukum murai (steps followed for fasting) in a Tamil Iyengar wedding is far more elaborate for the groom than the bride.
\n\nViratham for the Bride
\nThe bride’s father performs poojas for jadakarna(writing the jadagam or horoscope), namakarana (naming ceremony), annaprasanam(feeding rice) and chooda karma (first haircut). These rituals are mandatory for the bride to become a brahmin as per shasthras.
Viratham for the Groom
\nThe groom’s father should have performed the jadakarna, namakarana, annaprasanam and chowlam for the groom during his upanyanam function. These are done for the groom to become a brahmin as per shasthas. If this was not done, it has to be performed first.
The viratham for the groom begins with invocations to Gods Indra(Wind), Soma (Sun), Chandra (Moon) and Agni (Fire). After this, the groom prepares for a new chapter in his life as a grihasta (married man). He accepts that his days as a brahmachari(bachelor) are over. The sacred thread tied by brahmins called the poonal has three strings when the groom is a bachelor and is changed to six strings when he enters married life. This ritual is performed during the viratham. Later, the prospective mother-in-law of the groom applies mai(kajal) to the groom as a dhristi pottu(black dot) to ward off evil from her to-be son-in-law.
\n\nWhat is done for both the Bride and Groom?
\nA red nalangu paste made of a mixture of kumkum and turmeric is applied to their hands and feet. Kaapu, a white thread that is soaked in turmeric paste is tied on the hands of the bride and groom respectively. This thread is meant to ward off evil spirits and to protect them from any negativity. It is also an indication that they have become the bride and the groom and are hence restricted only to the kalyana mandapam till the muhurtham ritual is complete.
\n
Note: This is Conducted before the Nichayathartham
\n\nWhat it is
\nJanavasam is the South Indian ritual that is similar to the Baraat performed by North Indians. It is the ritual that signifies the arrival of the groom. Initially, the groom’s family along with his relatives as well as the bride’s family (except the bride) would assemble at a temple near the kalyana mandapam(wedding hall). The groom is offered a new dress by the bride’s family and is taken in a procession in an open car to the kalyana mandapam. The tune of nadaswaram(a wind instrument) penetrates the air invoking the festive spirits in all who participate in this ritual.
Welcoming the Bridegroom
\nAt the entrance of the Kalyana Mandapam, the Bridegroom is received by the bride’s family with flowers, coconuts, thamboolam(consists of vethalai i.e. beetle leaf), paaku(beetlenut), pazham(fruits))along with two cone-like structures called ‘paruppu thengai kutti’ or ‘paruppu thengai koodu’ which is traditionally made out of pulses, coconut and jaggery. Arathi is taken for the groom by the relatives of the bride and he is welcomed into the kalyana mandapam. The coconut used in arathi is broken to ward off any effect of evil eyes or negative vibrations. Once the groom is settled down and the rituals are complete, the guests enjoy the evening tiffin with family & friends.
Evolution of Janavasam
\nIn earlier days, the janavasam was the first occasion in which the bride will see the bridegroom and hence he was brought to the kalyana mandapam in an open car. Nowadays, this travel from temple to kalyana mandapam in an open janavasam car is rare due to security and traffic reasons still the temple visit is retained. Some do it for fun and novelty by adding a horse ride or a chariot procession for the groom even if it’s a short trip from the parking area till the mandapam!
The term ‘Lagna Pathirikai' translates to a wedding invitation in Tamil. The priest officially announces the wedding date to all the guests who are present for the nichayathartham. One can either do the lagna patrika matching online or it is handwritten by the priest after looking through the horoscopes of the bride and groom and finalising the right time for their wedding. The pathirikai carries the name of all the family members of the bride and groom in addition to a mention of the auspicious time and date for the wedding.
\n\nThe Agreement for Marriage
\nLagna pathirikai is an essential part of the wedding rituals in South Indian weddings mainly because, duriMuhurthamng this ritual, the blessing of parents, grandparents and ancestors are sought. The time of the marriage is announced to all the guests and the pathirikai is signed by the heads of both bride and groom families, thereby, finalizing the date and time of the 'muhurtham'. Once this is done, both families exchange gifts.
The Significance of the Lagna Pathirikai
\nThe date and time of the ‘’ (wedding) is the main element of the lagna pathirikai. The main ritual has to be performed within a time referred to as ‘Muhurtha Kalam’ which is three and three-fourths Nazhigai. (Nazhigai was a unit of time that was used in the ancient age and each nazhigai consists of 24 minutes making the ‘Muhurtha Kalam’ one and a half hours).
The Traditional Invite
\nLagna pathirikai forms the basis for the ‘Manjal pathirikai’ meaning ‘yellow invitation’ which is a traditional invitation that is printed in Tamil specifically to be sent to the elders in the family. The manjal pathirikai has a pink outer cover and is entirely yellow on the inside. Since yellow and red are considered to be auspicious colours, only these colours are used for the traditional wedding invitation.
The Present Day Scene
\nToday, there are a lot of lagna patrika designs that you can choose from but mostly the traditional one is retained. Some also use the lagna patrika format in English to make it easy for friends and relatives who are not able to read Tamil.
\n
Literally translated as ‘auspicious/purifying bath', the ‘Mangala snaanam' ritual is conducted during the wee hours of the wedding day for both the bride and the groom in their respective homes/rooms. Manjal (turmeric), kumkum (vermilion), and sandalwood paste are applied to the bride by her sumangali (married woman whose husband is alive) relatives. After this application, the bride is made to take a bath in holy water and get ready for the wedding rituals. A similar ritual is carried out for the bridegroom by sumangalis.
\n\nWhy Mangala Snaanam?
\nTurmeric is a disinfectant as well as a natural beautifier. The holy water is said to cleanse the body and souls making the bride and groom ready for a new life together.
The Prayer
\nThe holy water is obtained by an even number of Brahmins (spiritual and learned priests from the Brahmin community). The groom’s prayer to the brahmins means:
“Oh Brahmin! Bring us the holy water that will wash away all our sins; the water that is not spoilt by those who are dead; the water which will not destroy any life in the womb of my to-be wife; the water which is so pure that it takes away all negative effects from our bodies.\"
The Significance of Managala Snaanam in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
\nMangala snanam decorations are usually done with fresh flowers and this adds grandeur to the ritual. Vedic mantras are recited in order to sanctify the bride and preparing her for the upcoming challenges of married life. Surya (Sun God) and Varuna (Water God) are invoked to purify the bride and making her ‘spiritually ready’ for the wedding.
\n
Gowri Pooja also spelled as Gauri Pooja is a very common wedding ritual carried out by the bride as she prays before the Goddess for an auspicious start to a happy married life! Gowri Pooja or Gowri Vratham procedure in Tamil Iyengar wedding rituals is quite simple yet very powerful.
\n\nSignificance of Gowri Pooja Ritual in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
\nGoddess Gowri is the most powerful mother of the universe, and she symbolises purity, motherhood, fertility, and goodness. Gowri Pooja is performed by the bride on the wedding day to seek the blessings of Goddess Gowri for a happy married life. Goddess Gowri is the wife of Lord Shiva and she epitomises love, beauty, fertility, marriage, children, devotion, power and divine strength. The bride takes inspiration from Goddess Gowri and prays for similar strength and divine love in her life, free of obstacles. The bride offers prayers to Goddess Gowri during the Gowri Pooja aarti and seeks her blessings for a peaceful, prosperous and long married life.
How is it done?
\nThe Gowri Pooja is usually scheduled on the wedding day, but it again depends on the customs followed by the family. Some families conduct this function before any other pre-wedding rituals to ensure an auspicious start. The decision is taken based on all other factors, like the convenience of the priest and the bride’s family. Usually, the guest list will be limited and will include only close family members.
Every bride wishes for a happy married life, and this is why Gowri Pooja holds a unique place amongst the many Tamil community weddings.
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Kashi Yatra rituals are comical and interesting where the groom gets a chance to escape matrimony by deciding to walk out of the marriage and take up sanyasa (sanyasa is a stage where an individual lets go of everything in the material life and accepts spiritual path to be his way of life).
\n\nThe Kashi Yatra Ritual in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
\nThe groom pretends to become an ascetic, sage and scholar. This is a small act, enacted by the bride's family and the groom. The groom proclaims that he wants to take on spiritual life and starts off for Kashi, a place famous for spiritual and religious attainment. The groom starts for Kashi with footwear, coconut, rice, spare dhoti, walking stick, an umbrella, but the bride's father persuades the groom to let go of this thought and marry his daughter. Usually, this ceremony is held before the Muhurtham, and this is a hilarious ritual where a merry chase between the groom and the bride’s family is witnessed and enjoyed by everyone. The groom is brought back to the mandap to start the life of Grihastha (family man).
The Significance
\nThe significance of Kashi Yatra details in Tamil is for the groom to understand that he has to move from the stage of Brahmacharya (Bachelorhood) to Grihastha (Family man) and not directly to Vanaprastha (one who gives up worldly things) and Sanyasa (seeking spirituality).
The Kashi Yatra ceremony adds a spark to the wedding due to the fun involved, yet has a deep meaning attached to it!
","summary":""},"path":{"alias":"/wedding-rituals/tamil/brahmin-iyengar/kashi-yatra-ritual-tamil-brahmin-iyengar-weddings-funny"},"field_image":{"alt":"Kashi Yatra in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings"},"relationships":{"field_tags":[{"id":"fa6c176e-a49e-5345-b3f0-b2f07c8b9e90","name":"Brahmin Iyengar","weight":0},{"id":"b8620fe1-4b58-5a2f-b071-2c4b26e48b21","name":"Tamil","weight":0},{"id":"f7342040-b19d-5fff-a235-4e49be5a6db6","name":"Wedding Rituals","weight":34}],"field_image":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/630fb/Kashi%2520Yatra.png","srcSet":"/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/5db04/Kashi%2520Yatra.png 75w,\n/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/6d161/Kashi%2520Yatra.png 150w,\n/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/630fb/Kashi%2520Yatra.png 300w,\n/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/62b1f/Kashi%2520Yatra.png 450w,\n/static/cbac631a2f3bd9e02c1ff5dcc6979d7f/46604/Kashi%2520Yatra.png 500w","sizes":"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"}}}}}},{"id":"5bd3ae20-2f06-5f89-8678-8e2bf239768c","drupal_id":"32a64a0f-11a9-487e-8750-5459468125d9","title":"Tamil Brahmin Iyengar- Wedding - Pada Pooja To The Bridegroom","created":"2020-07-06T18:40:42+00:00","body":{"processed":"Every ritual during the marriage has its meaning and signifies ideal values to be followed in order to lead a happy married life. The age-old traditions and diverse rituals during an Iyengar marriage have their unique meaning attached to it. A ritual that takes place during an Iyengar marriage is the Pada Puja done by the bride's father for the bridegroom. Many would think as to why an older adult is doing Pada puja to the groom who is much younger than him, but there is a significance to this unique ritual as well.
\n\nSignificance of Pada Pooja in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
\nDuring a marriage ceremony, the mantras that are read out transform the bridegroom to the position of Lord Maha Vishnu. The bride's father does Pada Puja and gives panigraham (washing the feet with water) to the groom as he believes that the groom is Lord Maha Vishnu and trusts that he will take good care of his daughter. The belief is that the groom will behave and possess the qualities of Lord Maha Vishnu.
What is done in Pada Pooja?
\nThe puja vidhi is that the groom’s feet are washed by the bride’s father using sandalwood powder, kumkum, and water. The feet are also wiped dry after which the bride is invited to the mandapam (stage). Many families follow different ways to do the same ritual, but the pada puja significance remains the same.
Poo Maalai translates into flower garland in Tamil and Maatrudhal means exchange. Exchange of garlands or maalai maattrudhal is one of the rituals associated with a Tamil Brahmin Iyengar wedding. It happens before the wedding and after the 'Mapillai Azahaipu\".
\n\nThe Garlands
\nThe garlands are created in a unique way for both the bride and the groom. These garlands are made with closely-knit fresh flowers mostly malligai-poo (jasmine) with a few red roses or kanakambaram (crossandra or firecracker flower) and adorned beautiful beads such as pearls or stones. The garlands are then given to the bride and groom to be exchanged in the presence of their maternal uncles.
The Game
\nThe fun part comes when the bride or the groom tries to garland their prospective better half. Initially, the garland is handed over to the groom and the bride’s relatives - the maternal uncle, brothers and cousins lift up the bride to try and dodge the exchange. Once the groom successfully places a garland over the bride’s neck, the bride is handed over a garland and it is the duty of the groom’s relatives to do the same dodging trick.
The Significance of Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Maalai Mattrudhal Ritual
\nThe exchange is repeated thrice making it more fun and competitive for both the families. This acts as the fun part of the wedding amidst all the hectic wedding rituals. Exchange of garlands signifies the commencement of the marriage ceremony. It is a promise of commitment towards each other for the rest of their lives. The fragrance from the garlands sets the right stage for a romantic beginning of a new life!
Once the ceremony is complete, the groom and bride are guided towards the mandap for other rituals.
","summary":""},"path":{"alias":"/wedding-rituals/tamil/brahmin-iyengar/maalai-maattrudhal-ritual-tamil-brahmin-iyengar-weddings"},"field_image":{"alt":"Maalai Maattrudhal Ritual In Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings"},"relationships":{"field_tags":[{"id":"fa6c176e-a49e-5345-b3f0-b2f07c8b9e90","name":"Brahmin Iyengar","weight":0},{"id":"b8620fe1-4b58-5a2f-b071-2c4b26e48b21","name":"Tamil","weight":0},{"id":"f7342040-b19d-5fff-a235-4e49be5a6db6","name":"Wedding Rituals","weight":34}],"field_image":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/630fb/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png","srcSet":"/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/5db04/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png 75w,\n/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/6d161/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png 150w,\n/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/630fb/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png 300w,\n/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/62b1f/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png 450w,\n/static/e38dc780f020a39dbd0c9b8096ef82d5/46604/Maalai%2520Maatrudhal%2520.png 500w","sizes":"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"}}}}}},{"id":"2695bc46-8d54-5692-9806-55e64ce57b53","drupal_id":"107f7294-e6a1-49e6-ac5a-73701d5c709f","title":"The Oonjal Ritual in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings ","created":"2020-07-21T01:36:29+00:00","body":{"processed":"Oonjal is one ceremony that is a delight for everyone who is involved in the wedding. The oonjal/unjal (swing in English) ceremony generally takes place right after the exchange of garlands once the groom returns after Kasi Yatra.
\n\nThe Swing(Oonjal)
\nThe swing which is called Oonjal in Tamil is where the bride and groom will be seated. The swing is decorated beautifully with flowers and kolam(designs made out of wet rice flour). In this ritual, the bride is assumed to be a representation of Radha and the groom that of Krishna and their feet are washed with milk. The couple are made to sit on the swing, are rocked back and forth gently, and the women in the family sing songs to celebrate the occasion.
The Significance of Oonjal in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Wedding Rituals
\nThe swing represents the strength that the couple has to find in each other throughout their lives. It also serves as a reminder to have each other's back during hard times. One of the interesting aspects in Oonjal is that the couple is not allowed to place their feet on the ground even though the swing is being pushed to and fro by elders in the family. The couple is allowed to hold the swing or each other but should not keep the feet down, this makes it exciting as well as a fun ceremony. It is a belief that their life would be smooth just like how they swing joyfully on the ‘oonjal’.
Pidi Sutral ritual during Oonjal
\nThe couple is protected from kan drishti (evil eye). A handful of coloured rice is taken and is circled around the bride and groom and is thrown in all four directions of the couple, towards the left, right, front and back.
The elders of the family take turns to bless the couple and sing oonjal songs. This ritual is one of the most relaxing and fun parts of the wedding celebrations. Not only does it involve all the elders in the family, but it also serves as a pleasant memory to look back.
","summary":""},"path":{"alias":"/wedding-rituals/tamil/brahmin-iyengar/oonjal-ritual-tamil-brahmin-iyengar-weddings"},"field_image":{"alt":"Oonjal Ritual In Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings"},"relationships":{"field_tags":[{"id":"fa6c176e-a49e-5345-b3f0-b2f07c8b9e90","name":"Brahmin Iyengar","weight":0},{"id":"b8620fe1-4b58-5a2f-b071-2c4b26e48b21","name":"Tamil","weight":0},{"id":"f7342040-b19d-5fff-a235-4e49be5a6db6","name":"Wedding Rituals","weight":34}],"field_image":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/9dc27/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/25b50/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg 75w,\n/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/aabdf/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg 150w,\n/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/9dc27/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg 300w,\n/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/32fd5/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg 450w,\n/static/1f163c6dad15e6c468dfe7621d5dacc8/0f3a1/oonjal%2520iyebgar.jpg 500w","sizes":"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px"}}}}}},{"id":"2f9479ee-310d-5ee9-861a-c111ca0894b9","drupal_id":"a476f4a1-0af0-496d-b680-bcc5096b007c","title":"The Kanyadaan Ritual In Tamil Iyengar Weddings ","created":"2020-07-21T02:00:14+00:00","body":{"processed":"The Kanyadaan ritual happens on the day of the wedding. It is the most emotional and highly valued one as it unifies the couple into one. The word Kanyadaan means that the precious unmarried daughter of the family handed over to the groom. The word ‘Kanya’ means unmarried virgin girl, ‘Daanam’ means giving away (donating), hence the name.
\n\nThe Significance of Kanyadaan Ritual In Tamil Iyengar Weddings
\nDuring a wedding, the groom is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and the bride is viewed as Goddess Lakshmi. By giving away their daughter as a gift, the parents' sins are washed away, and they are forgiven for their sins committed during this birth.
How is it Done?
\nIn this important Iyengar wedding ceremony, the bride is made to sit on her father’s lap. The father places the right hand of the bride on the right hand of the groom. A ring made out of Dharba or Kusa grass (Dharba grass is also known as Panic grass and is part of the genus borage species) is placed on the bride’s head. Kusa grass has the ability to absorb sixty percent of any negative radiation and is hence considered a purifying object. A yoke is placed on top of it and at the eye of the yoke, the thirumangalyam or thali is placed. The priest sprinkles rice on the joined hands and the bride's parents pour holy water on top while Vedic mantras are chanted.
Vedic Mantra Chants
\nThe mantras mean - ‘May this gold amplify your wealth, may the water purify your married life and increase your prosperity. Offer yourself wholeheartedly to your husband’. The ritual also signifies the groom promising to be loyal and love the bride for lifetime.
Significance of the Yoke
\nThe yoke used in kanyadaan symbolises the yoke that was used in ancient days to “connect to a set of two bulls that were used to till the fields\". The ritual signifies that just as both the bulls have to work in harmony to complete the farm work, the success of a wedding lies in the hands of the husband and wife.
A Battle of Emotions
\nA daughter is considered to be very prosperous and handing her over to her husband is one of the highest forms of donation possible. This is one reason why Kanyadaan is one of the most emotional rituals at a wedding and without doubt, invokes the innermost feelings for both parents and the daughter as she is officially handed over to the groom. It is during Kanyadaan that you will see a few tears, mostly the bride and her parents or closest family, as it is the time when emotions take over ceremonial fun.
\n
Once the Saptapadi is over, as per the Iyengar wedding traditions, the newlyweds seek blessings from their parents and parents-in-law. Then, the couple seeks the blessings of the Acharya or the priest as in Hindu culture, the teacher or guru plays an essential part in one's life. At weddings, the priest takes the place of the teacher. Following the teacher, the newlyweds proceed to seek the blessings of the maternal uncle and other elders in the family.
\n\nSignificance of Sammandhi Mariyathai in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings-Exchange of Gifts
\nOnce the marriage ceremonies are concluded, and the bride and groom get ready to leave the mandapam to start their new life together, the families gather and exchange gifts. The gifts can be anything and are based on the financial position of the families and is a token of appreciation for performing the wedding duties. Some families gift silk sarees or silver artefacts while others gift other memorable items.
\nDuring Sammandhi Mariyathai, gifts are generally given to:
If the parents of either the groom or the bride are no more, then the Tamil brahmin rituals will be conducted by the father's brother or by the elder brother if he is married. While gifting, it is mandatory to add Manjal(turmeric), Kumkum(vermillion), and Santhanam(sandal powder) in the gift bag as it signifies the start of many more such happy events in the future.
\n
Grihapravesham or griha pravesh pooja is the entry of the new bride into her in-law's place. Usually, weddings in India, especially in South India are conducted in a marriage hall. A marriage hall is designed in such a way that there are specific rooms for the bride's family and the groom's family. If the groom stays in the same town/city where the wedding is conducted then the newly wedded bride is taken to the in-law's house by her parents.
\n\nSignificance of Grihapravesham Ritual in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
Welcoming the Bride-When the Groom is from the Same Place
\nAs per this traditional Tamil Iyengar wedding ceremony, the bride is welcomed into the in-law's house with an Aarthi and is offered flowers and sweets. The maatuponnu (a name that Tamil Brahmins call their daughter-in-law which signifies that she is also a daughter) is then made to sit on a low wooden plank called the Manai, and her in-laws give her milk to drink. She is gifted a new saree which she has to wear and light the sacred lamp in the puja room called the ‘Kuthu vilakku’.
Welcoming the Bride-When the Groom is from a Different Geography
\nIn case the groom and his family hail from a different town than the place where the wedding happens, the Grihapravesham is performed when the bride enters the groom's room (The groom’s room in the kalyana mandapam is considered as his temporary residence as it would be difficult for the newlyweds to travel to the actual residence of the groom). Once the post-wedding rituals are complete and the newlyweds reach their home, they perform the Grihapravesham ritual again offering Aarthi and sweets. The bride also lights the 'Kuthu Vilakku' and becomes a part of the bridegroom's family.
Checklist of things that need to be kept ready in a groom’s house for Grihapravesham:
\n\nThe Saptapadi (7 steps) ritual is conducted after the Mangalya Dharanam and holds a significant place in a Tamil Iyengar wedding. ‘Sapta’ means seven and 'Padi' means steps. After the Thali is tied, the newlyweds take seven steps around the holy fire or Agni Kundam. After the completion of these seven steps, the couple becomes husband and wife. Read on to understand the significance of Saptapadi Ritual:
\n\nSignificance of Saptapadi Ritual in Tamil Brahmin Iyengar Weddings
\nWhile going around the seven steps, the groom chants mantras at each step, which have the following meaning
After taking the seven steps, the groom recites a few more mantras which means
\n\nWith this the wedding is sanctified and complete. After this ritual is complete the groom and bride are declared husband and wife both socially and religiously.
\n
Thali Bhagya And ‘Handing Over’
\nThe Mangalya Dharanam is a ritual performed after Kanyadanam. The groom’s parents present a nine-yard silk saree which is one of the traditional Iyengar wedding sarees to the bride which indicates that the bride is accepted into the family. This saree is retained by the bride and is worn throughout her life for all religious ceremonies. The girl has to wear this wedding saree (Koora pudavai) for the Mangalya Dharanam ritual when a sacred thread is tied around her neck by the groom. Mangalya dharanam in Tamil means that it is the time or moment when the mangalyam (thali) is tied around the neck of the bride by the groom.
Tying the Sacred Thread - Mangalya Dharanam Ritual
\nBefore tying the Mangalyam, it is blessed by the priests and the elders present at the wedding. The turmeric coated thread has a Thirumangalyam or Thali attached to it, the Thali is tied around the neck of the bride with three knots, the first two are tied by the groom and the last one by the groom’s sister.
\n
Paanigrahanam Ritual(Adoption of the Bride by the Groom’s Family)
\nOnce the Mangalya is tied, the next ritual is the Paanigrahanam where the groom holds the right hand of the bride and recites the following mantras which mean:
Both, Mangalya Dharanam And Panigrahanam Ritual in Tamil Iyengar Weddings signify the completion of the core wedding ritual. The bride and groom are considered married to each other.
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