South Indian Wedding

Weddings are considered a sacred affair in India. Indian weddings revolve around the traditional rituals and customs. A South Indian wedding is no exception. It strictly follows all the rituals and traditions. It lasts for few days and is an elaborate affair.

South Indian weddings are bit different from the other wedding ceremonies held in India. The wedding gate is decorated with full-grown plantain trees that signify evergreen generation. Rangoli is drawn on the doorsteps and guests are welcomed by sprinkling rosewater on them. Fresh flowers are offered to the guests. Doors are decorated with garlands of mango leaves. It is considered auspicious for the occasion.

South Indian wedding ceremonies begins with the “vratham” practice. It is performed by both the bride and the groom and hold great importance during the wedding. This ritual has different meaning for both the bride and the groom. For the bride, it means tying a thread around here wrist that signifies her safety from evil spirits. For the groom it signifies the end of his bachelor life and the beginning of his “Grahshta” i.e. a new household life.

On the main day, the feet of the bride and the groom are washed with milk and dried with silk cloth by the bride’s father. The bride and the groom exchange garlands with each other. This is done three times. This is believed to strengthen the bond between the couple. The ceremony of saatphere is then carried out. The couple takes seven steps around the sacred fire Agni. This marks the completion of the wedding ceremony.

South Indian weddings are a treat to watch. There are different rituals and customs to witness. The highlight of south Indian weddings is the costumes of the couple, the traditional rituals, delicious cuisines and wonderful décor.