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Maruvidu Varudal
The Maruvidu Varudal ceremony marks one of the last wedding customs observed in Tamil Brahmin weddings. This ritual takes place three days after the wedding when the married couple visit the bride’s home. It symbolises the lasting connection between the bride and her family. On the day of the Maruvidu Varudal ceremony, the couple seeks blessings from elders in the groom’s family by touching their feet. This gesture is known as Paaladaanam, which underscores the importance of respecting your elders. Subsequently, they proceed to the bride's residence. In preparation for their arrival, the entrance of the bride’s home is often adorned with kolam patterns created using rice flour, which are delicately drawn on the ground for their appeal and as symbols of good fortune. Additionally, banana leaves and mango leaves are used to decorate the home. Various flowers like jasmine, marigold and roses are skillfully strung together to form torans over doorways. Brass urlis filled with water, flowers, and diyas are placed at their doorstep to welcome them. Brass oil lamps known as kuthu vilakku are ceremoniously lit to symbolise luck. When the couple arrives, the bride’s mother performs aarti to greet them warmly into her home. During their stay, fun games called Valeyadal are organised by the bride’s family to add some amusement amidst all the wedding bustle. The couple receives gifts of silk sarees, jewellery, and sweets from both their families to help them in their new life. The celebration ends with a delicious vegetarian lunch, served on banana leaves in tribute to the newlyweds, showcasing a variety of Tamil delicacies. Guests are served a variety of delicious appetisers such as vadai, bonda, and sundal. The customary wedding feast is typically served on banana leaves. Popular dishes include Sambar, a vegetable stew made with lentils and tamarind and Rasam, a light soup. The meal also features lentils, vegetables and various curry dishes like Kootu, Poriyal and Avial paired with rice. Additionally, guests may enjoy Biryani—a rice dish cooked with spices and either meat or vegetables. Following this, the bride and groom depart for the groom's home to embark on their journey into married life.
Cultural Significance
The Maruvidu Varudal ceremony carries cultural and emotional weight. It represents the bride's enduring connection to her home, strengthening the bond between both families. This tradition ensures that the bride stays connected to her roots and maintains her family ties after marriage.
Moreover, this ceremony serves as a gesture of acceptance and respect from the bride's family towards the groom. By hosting them with gifts and blessings, the bride's family embraces the groom as a part of their own family. This act of hospitality fosters a deeper connection between both families.
The symbolic elements used in the ceremony, such as brass vessels, banana leaves, and floral decorations, are rich in tradition and meaning. Brass vessels symbolise sanctity, which is frequently associated with religious rituals. The presence of banana leaves and mango leaves is believed to bring prosperity while warding off energies. Flowers, like jasmine and marigold, are chosen to seek blessings from deities and create an ambience.
Valeyadal, the playful games incorporated into the ceremony help ease the bride's transition into her chapter of life. These activities can help the bride and her new family get to know each other, creating a sense of unity and approval. They also offer a fun break from the formalities of the Tamil weddings, allowing everyone to unwind and enjoy the festivities.
Fashioning Tradition
During the Maruvidu Varudal ceremony, it is customary for the bride. Groom to dress in traditional outfits that showcase Tamil Nadu's rich textile legacy. The bride often selects a Coimbatore Silk Saree for blending tradition with modern style. These sarees feature colours and intricate patterns inspired by temple designs and nature. The addition of work or gold thread embellishments gives the saree a subtle shine and opulence, making it both graceful and celebratory.
Another favoured option for brides is the Kumbakonam silk saree, prized for its feel and light texture. Crafted by weavers, these sarees are light and airy, providing comfort while exuding elegance. They often boast borders and pallu adorned with motifs drawn from nature and temple artistry, enhancing their charm.
Alternatively, brides may choose a Tenkasi Silk Saree distinguished by its design features and lively hues. These beautiful silk sarees feature designs like animal motifs, paisley prints and geometric patterns, making them ideal for special celebrations. The Tenkasi Saree showcases Tamil Nadu textile traditions' grace and cultural heritage.
Traditional groom attire typically includes a silk dhoti paired with an angavastram, a silk shawl draped over the shoulder. However, modern grooms often opt for contemporary outfits such as kurtas paired with Nehru jackets for wedding events like receptions. To complement their look groom’s might add accessories like watches, gold chains and polished shoes.
Jewellery & Accessories
During the Maruvidu Varudal ceremony, the bride's jewellery is carefully selected to match her outfit and signify her marital status. Although simpler than wedding jewellery, these accessories remain elegant and meaningful.
The bride often selects earrings, ranging from gold studs to more intricate jhumkas (dangling earrings). She may also wear a Besari, a gold nose ring embedded with precious stones. This nose stud brings a traditional element to the bride’s appearance. When it comes to necklaces, the bride has a few that she can choose from. The Attigai is a favoured choice. This fitting choker necklace is typically crafted from gold, adding sophistication and tradition to the bride's overall attire.
Image Credits
Rohan Mishra | Wedding Wire | Weva Photography | Panigrahan Weddings | Cultural Indians | Shaadiwish | Kalyalam | Eternity Uk | Asian Wedding Photography | Weddingwire | Emito | Medium | Matrimonials