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Nischitartham
In Andhra Pradesh, weddings start with the engagement ceremony in Nischitartham. In traditional arranged marriages, the process typically begins with Pelli Choopulu. This is a matchmaking ceremony in which the bride's parents and elders seek a suitable match within their community. These matches are often made based on family background, education, and social status. However, as India becomes more modern, many couples have a love marriage. Here, they can choose their partners based on personal compatibility. Nischitartham itself is a joyous occasion. The ceremony begins with the bride and groom exchanging rings and praying to Lord Ganesh for his blessings. Next, the families exchange a traditional contract known as Patrika. This formalises the marriage agreement. Subsequently, a pandit matches the horoscopes to determine an auspicious wedding date. The ceremony ends with the lighting of a brass lamp or Nila Villaku, signifying prosperity. At the end of the Nischitartham ceremony, both families shower the bride with blessings and gifts. In a world where traditional values are often challenged by modernity, these rituals ground individuals in their cultural identity and create a sense of belonging.
Cultural Significance
Nischitartham holds great significant cultural importance. It marks the beginning of Andhra Pradesh wedding preparations in South India. This event serves as the formal announcement of the marriage to friends and relatives. They can now start the planning process for the big day. In olden times, the ritual was often the first formal meeting between the prospective bride and groom. It was a chance for them to get to know each other before marriage.
Additionally, Nischitartham allows the families of both individuals to come together, giving them ample time to get to know each other before preparing for the upcoming wedding.
Fashioning Tradition
During Nischitartham, the bride wears a resplendent silk saree. Her hands and feet have mehendi, while kumkum or chandan is applied to her forehead. Kanjeevaram sarees are a popular choice for this ceremony. These sarees originally come from the temple city of Kanchipuram in southern India and are known for their exquisite craftsmanship.
With their luxurious silk fabric and classic gold colours, Kanjeevaram sarees exude absolute elegance. The patterns on these sarees are often inspired by the intricate designs carved into South Indian temples. Besides temple motifs, these sarees have checks, stripes, florals, and mythical legends imbued into their designs. Modern sarees include fruits, animals, birds, sun, and moon patterns.
Traditional Kanjeevaram sarees are 9 yards long. They have since adapted to modern preferences by introducing more practical 6-yard weaves. Despite these changes, Kanjeevaram sarees are still a symbol of heritage, makingthemt the perfect choice for a bride’s look.
The groom typically wears a modest Sherwani or a Dhoti Kurta. Modern grooms may also choose a kurta paired with a Nehru Jacket for a contemporary look.
Jewellery & Accessories
Jewellery plays a significant role in the Nischitartham ceremony. The couple typically exchanges gold rings, which represent luck and prosperity. Couples may opt for classic gold wedding rings or choose modern designs with diamonds or precious stones.
Image Credits
Wedding Bazaar | Alamy | Ragalahari | 1 Plus 1 Studio | Boldsky | Ptaufiq Photography | Diaqnoz | Dreaming Loud | Bride of Honor | Quora | Focuz Studios | Pixabay