Lifestyle
Kannada Wedding Rituals and Traditions: The Sacred Union
Largely seen in the south Indian states of Karnataka, the Kannada wedding is a typical example of the deep-rooted cultural heritage that the Indians follow as part of wedding celebrations. Kannada weddings are joyful events, mostly happening during the daytime. It is quite a pretty affair where you get to see colorful and fascinating ritualistic practices followed by the Kannadigas (Kannadigas).
The Kannada wedding rituals are somewhat similar to other south Indian weddings, but mostly the wedding rituals continue for 1 to 2 days. Instead of extravagant reception, Kannadigas prefer the wedding to be a vibrant ceremony celebrated in the presence of close relatives and friends. There are pre-wedding, wedding and, post-wedding rituals associated with Kannada wedding rituals.
Kannada Wedding Rituals and Traditions: The Sacred Union
Kannada wedding rituals are an amalgamation of rich traditions, rituals, and customs that reflect the cultural legacy of Karnataka, a southern state in India. These weddings are full of vibrant colors, exuberant celebrations, and elaborate celebrations that make them unique.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Kannada weddings, exploring the pre-wedding, wedding, and post-wedding rituals and the customs that make these rituals unforgettable.
Kannada wedding rituals and traditions
Pre-Wedding Rituals
Naandi Custom
The Naandi custom marks the commencement of wedding celebrations. It involves seeking blessings from the family deity and ancestors for a successful marriage. The bride and groom perform this ritual separately at their respective houses.
Nischay Tamulam
Niskay Tamulam is the engagement ceremony where the formal announcement of the wedding is made. The families exchange betel leaves, betel nuts, coconuts, fruits, and clothes as a sign of acceptance and goodwill.
Dev Karya Custom
The families seek blessings from the gods and ancestors to ensure a harmonious marriage. This ritual involves performing special prayers to evoke divine blessings.
Kaashi Yatra
In this light-hearted ritual, the groom pretends to leave for Kashi(Varanasi), and the bride’s brother convinces him to stay and marry his sister. It adds an element of fun and humor to the pre-wedding activities.
Sangeet and Haldi
The sangeet ceremony involves singing and dancing in celebration. On the same day or the day before the wedding, the Haldi ceremony takes place, where turmeric paste is applied to the bride and groom as part of the beautify process.
Wedding Rituals
Mandap Puja
The wedding ceremony begins with the Mandap Puja, where the priest invokes the blessings of Lord Ganesha and seeks his presence for a successful marriage.
Ganpati Puja
Before the arrival of the bride and groom, a Ganapati Puja is performed at the mandap to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings, the remover of obstacles.
Olaitha
The Olaitha ritual is an emotional moment when the bride’s parents give her away to the groom while expressing their love and blessings.
Mangalsutra Dharana
During this pivotal moment, the groom ties the sacred mangal sutra (a necklace with black beads) around the bride’s neck, symbolizing their everlasting bond.
Akshata and Arundhati Darshan
Rice mixed with turmeric is showered on the couple as a sign of prosperity and fertility. They also seek blessings from the star Arundhati for a strong and enduring marriage.
Saptapadi
The bride and groom take seven sacred vows, known as Saptapadi while circling the holy fire. Each vow represents a promise they make to each other for a joyful married life.
Dhare Herdu Custom
The groom carries the bride across the doorstep of her new home. It symbolizes her entry into his life and their new journey together.
Vidaai
The Vidaai ceremony is a tearful goodbye where the bride leaves her parental home to start a new life with her husband. It is an emotional moment for both the families.
Post-Wedding Rituals
Reception
After the marriage ceremony, a grand reception is held. Here the couple is presented as a married couple to the extended family and friends.
Look at me
The bride uncovers her face to her new family, and they offer her gifts and blessings. This is done in a ritual called Mooh Dikhai.
Gruhapravesha
The bride enters her new home and is greeted by the groom’s family. She is considered the Lakshmi of the house, symbolizing prosperity and prosperity.
Grihasthashrama
The couple seeks the blessings of the family deities and ancestors for a prosperous and happy married life. It embarks on the journey of Grihasthashrama(family life).
Sada Suhagin Custom
The newly married bride seeks blessings from all the elders in the family. It leads to a blissful married life as a Sadaa Suhagin (married woman).
Suggi Kattida Kunita
After the wedding, traditional games like Suggi Kattida Kunita are played. It brings happiness and laughter to the newlywed couple and their families.
Conclusion:-
Kannada weddings are a beautiful fusion of age-old traditions and cultural heritage, filled with love, joy, and celebrations. These weddings celebrate the union of two persons and the coming together of two families.
FAQ’s
What does the Grihasthashrama ceremony symbolize?
The Grihasthashrama ceremony symbolizes the beginning of the couple’s shared life together, seeking blessings for a harmonious and prosperous family life.
What is the essence of the farewell ceremony?
The Vidaai ceremony is emotionally charged, representing the bride’s transition from her parental home to her husband’s home. It symbols love, affection, and new beginnings.
Why is the Saptapadi considered a vital ritual?
The Saptapadi is important as the couple takes seven vows, promising to support and cherish each other in their journey of marriage. It forms the foundation of their wedded life.
Why is Lord Ganesha worshiped before the wedding rituals?
Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles and is respected as the god of new beginnings. Worshiping him before the wedding ensures a smooth and obstacle-free ceremony.