The variety of customs that make up a Nair matrimony emphasises the cultural traditions that the Nair community has. In addition, this upholds throughout the wedding celebrations. When you hear the phrase “Indian weddings,” the first few things that will likely come to mind are the traditions.
Every major faith in this nation practises a unique set of marriage traditions. Therefore, some marriages in India extend for days while others only last a few hours. And when it comes to shorter weddings, they are typically South Indian weddings. They are completed in a matter of hours or, at most, over two to three days. The shortest weddings in South India are said to be Nair matrimony.
Muhurtham
This pre-wedding custom only takes place after seeing an astrologer determine whether the bride and groom’s horoscopes coincide or not. After speaking with the families of both the bride and the groom, the astrologer will decide on the wedding date.
Nischayam
Some people would rather celebrate the “Nischayam” (the engagement ceremony), where the marriage is formally declared. This will happen before the wedding ceremony. During this tradition, the couple exchanges ring in front of their loved ones.
Ayana
Close family and friends gather at the bride’s home the day before the wedding to enjoy a magnificent feast. The bride will be magnificently attired and accessorised with gold. The bride asks for blessings during the ceremony, particularly from the elders. Such a celebration will also happen at the home of the groom.
Groom’s Welcome
In Nair matrimony, this ritual is held specifically for the groom. The bride’s family here greets the groom with pomp and circumstance when he arrives at the ceremony location. The groom will enter the venue and the bride’s brother welcomes him. The bride’s brother will also wash the groom’s feet with water and gives him a rose petal shower. This event is joyfully observed, and it is enjoyable to watch.
Thalikettu
In addition to being the most significant in Nair matrimony, this event is also the most revered in Hindu weddings. The bride wears a wedding string around her neck, signifying the couple’s marital status. After this ceremony, the couple exchanges garlands in the mandapam. The groom is then given his manthrakodi, by the groom’s father, who subsequently presents it to the bride. This ritual is sacred, pure, and the cornerstone of the joyful marriage between the couple.
Panigrahanam
One of the most significant rituals in Nair matrimony takes place right after Thalikettu during this ceremony. The bride’s father performs this ritual by placing betel leaves on the groom’s right hand. He then places the bride’s hand on it after that.
Pudamuri
Pudamuri is a lovely event where the groom presents his new wife with a stunning silk saree. This is to denote that he would always look out for her for the rest of her life. The wedding couple now swaps garlands which implies that they have happily embraced each other.
Kanyadanam
Similar to other wedding rituals, this one emphasises the father and daughter’s close emotional connection. Here, the bride’s father tenderly inserts his daughter’s hands in the groom’s. In the process, he obtains the groom’s assurance that he will always treat his daughter with kindness, love, and care. Following this ritual, the family’s elders will bless the couple for a long and happy life.
Sadhya
After everything is finished, it’s time for a sumptuous traditional feast that lasts for hours. The Nair matrimony ceremonies include the serving of this substantial lunch. It comprises 25 courses, including different kinds of rice, pickles, curry, and desserts, all served on a plantain leaf.
Grihapravesh
The ritual is called Grihapravesh, and it begins when the couple arrives at the groom’s residence from the wedding venue. The bride is given a ceremonial lamp by the senior member of the groom’s family before she enters the home. The practice is an auspicious event for Hindu weddings in Kerala.
Reception
After the pair arrives at the groom’s home, a lavish reception will be there. The couple will receive gifts from close friends and relatives on this happy occasion. While enjoying a large selection of delectable treats, the couple, their family, and friends will have a great day.
Outfits for Bride and Groom
The groom will wear traditional clothing, including a silk shirt and a mundu with a silk or silver border (dhoti). The groom can also wear a kurta if he prefers not to wear a shirt. However, some people follow fashion trends and favour modern clothing over traditional attire.
In actuality, the bride is the focus of attention on the wedding day more so than the groom. She, therefore, prefers to look stunning by donning an attractively made traditional saree and lovely gold jewellery.
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