Kannada rituals are almost similar to Hindu rituals but there are certain rituals that are different. They are very beautiful and simple. The Kannada weddings are carried out in the state of Kerala. These weddings spread the essence of grace and elegance. This reflects the true nature of the state. They are not as glamorous as other Indian weddings but are very enjoyable. There are a series of ceremonies that are carried out before the wedding. These include the pre, post and the wedding day ceremonies.

Like any other Indian wedding, Kannada weddings also begin with finalizing an auspicious date for the wedding. The horoscopes of both the bride and the groom are matched. All other rituals begin after this. Once both the families give their acceptance for the marriage gifts are exchanged between them. The groom is presented a dhoti, coconut and fruits by the bride’s family, while the bride is offered a sari, coconut and some fruits by the groom’s family. This is known as fixing the alliance or the Nischay Tamulam ritual. A ritual called Naandi is performed both at the bride’s and the groom’s place. This is done so that the marriage is carried out smoothly. The Kaashi Yatra ceremony is fun-filled and entertaining. According to this ritual, the groom pretends to be angry and leaves for Kashi. He does this as he is deprived of his bride. He stops only when his maternal uncle promises to give him his bride. The last pre-wedding ceremony is the Dev-Kriya. On the completion of this ceremony turmeric paste is applied to both the bride and the groom.

Wedding rituals involved in the Kannada weddings are very interesting. All the wedding rituals are carried out in the mandap. To begin with, a Mandap puja is performed. This is a way of purifying the wedding venue. The next step involves worshipping the groom. The Var puja is done by washing the groom’s feet. The bride then enters the venue. The bride and the groom then exchange garlands with each other while the priest chants the mantras. Dhare Herdu commonly known as the Kanyadaan is the next ritual that is carried out. In this the bride’s parents hand over their daughter’s responsibility to the groom. A coconut and betel leaf is placed on the hand of the couple and holy water is poured. This completes the ceremony. The groom then ties the mangalsutra around the bride’s neck. The wedding rituals are concluded with the saptapadi. It is the most important part of the wedding.

The bride and the groom receive a warm welcome when they arrive home. Rituals like the Griha Pravesh, changing the bride’s name and the reception party are then carried out.