The Bunt community is one of the few matriarchal communities in India. Since Bunt men were warriors, women held all the household authority. This is reflected in the Murthasese ceremony, as the women in the bride’s family play a more significant role in the rites and rituals. For example, the ceremony is overseen by the bride’s paternal aunt and involves other married women in the family as well. 

Every part of the ceremony holds much meaning. For example, the silver toe ring given to the bride is worn on the second toe and represents good health and fertility. Perhaps the most important jewellery of the ceremony is the Vadungila, placed on the bride’s ring finger. Also called the Vanki ring, this is an elegantly curved V-shaped ring worn by brides to show their marital status and family heritage.

This traditional ring carries deep meaning in the Bunt community. It can trace its origins to the community’s worship of snakes, which are a symbol of strength and renewal. For the bride, it is believed to have protective qualities, offering her resilience against negative forces. It is often passed down through generations in the Bunt community, representing the enduring commitment and shared experiences of marriage. 

The ring is presented to the bride by her father’s female relatives as a reminder of the enduring bond between her maternal and marital homes. She is shown that though she may be moving to a new home, she carries familial love and support with her. Whether adorned with plain gold or sparkling diamonds, these pieces hold immense sentimental value within the Bunt community, symbolising continuity, protection, and familial bonds.

For the Murthasese ceremony, the bride typically wears a Kanchipuram saree, which is celebrated for its meticulous craftsmanship.

The history of Kanchipuram silk dates back around 400 years, when skilled weavers from the Saligars and Devangas communities settled in the district of Kanchipuram. These sarees were revered in Karnataka and traditionally woven in temples. Made from pure mulberry silk, they come in a wide range of vibrant colours, with contrasting borders and pallus intricately woven with gold threads. 

The Kanchipuram saree typically consists of three main parts: the body, pallu, and border. The borders exhibit various designs, such as mangoes, peacocks, swans, elephants, and chakras. At the same time, the pallu often features motifs inspired by scriptures, temple art, and scenes from Hindu mythology like ‘Yashoda and Krishnan’ and ‘Kaliyamardanam’. Over time, Kanchipuram sarees have evolved to include a variety of motifs, such as fruits, animals, birds, the sun, the moon, and mythological stories, replacing traditional designs.

The weaving process involves separately weaving the body and pallu before combining them with intricate zigzag patterns known as ‘Pitni’. Additionally, the three saree borders are woven individually and precisely connected to ensure durability.

Highly sought-after across the country, Kanchipuram sarees are considered auspicious as they are believed to be favoured by Shiva and Vishnu. Known for their rich fabric and luxurious gold colours, these sarees are perfect for the special Murthasese occasion. 

While originally woven in a 9-yard weave, more practical 6-yard weaves have been introduced, and the original gold and silver shavings have been replaced by more cost-effective materials like metal or copper shavings. However, genuine Zari work remains a hallmark of authenticity