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The Hindu Marriage is the thirteenth of the 16 samskaras in a person's life and is solemized in Sanskrit language in accordance with the rituals enjoined by Sanatana Dharma.In a typical South Indian Tamil Hindu wedding , the events that take place are as follows:
Gowri Puja:The Bride prays to Mother Gowri (Universal Mother) to get permission to get married.
Kasiyatra by Groom: The groom is presented with an umbrella, a pair of sandals and a walking stick. A ceremony called "kasiyatra" (the pilgrimage or journey to kasi) is conducted in which groom darkens his eyes with kajal (black eyeliner)
Varagamanam: (Arrival of Bride Groom) The Bride Groom is greeted and welcomed by Bride's family and escorted to Ritualistic Enclosure(Kalyana Mandapam)
Ganesh Puja: Prayers to Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles.
PunyaVachanam (The Purification Rite) wherein the groom invokes water from all rivers and oceans and this is purified by Veda Mantra and used during weding Ceremony.
Rakshabandanam: A sacred yellow thread is tied in bride and grooms' wrist to protect from external obstacles.
Kanyagaman: Arrival of Bride
Kanyadanam: (Giving the bride away) The Brides' father washes the groom's feet and requests him to accept his daughter as his wife.
Sumuhurtham: At this auspicious moment, bride and groom place Jeelakara and Bellam(cumin seeds and brown sugar) symbolizing the sharing of life.
Mala Matral: The bride and groom exchange garlands, followed by prayers to Agni,God of fire.
MangalyaDarana: The Groom ties Mangala Sutra (Sacred Necklace) around the bride's neck with 3 knots declaring that she is his wife.
Shilarohanam: (Stepping the stone) The bride and groom stand on slab of stone to symbolise stability in their marriage.
Laja apran : Symbolises welcoming Groom to the Bride's family by bride's brothers offering puffed rice to ceremonial fire.
Saptapati (The Seven Sacred Vows) - Couple takes 7 steps around the Homam (sacred fire) symbolising 1 vow for each step.
Ashirvadam: Newly weds receive Blessings from Priest,family and friends.
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