Tamil Chettiars have been known to celebrate every function in splendour. Their wedding celebrations are once in a lifetime events that are unique and should not be missed under any circumstances. If you have been to a Tamil Nadu Chettiar wedding, you would have experienced some unforgettable days where relatives, friends and family members get together and share the joy of uniting a new couple in marital bliss.
What is the Significance of Manjal Neeru Aduthal in Tamil Chettiar Weddings?
The Tamil Chettiar bride and groom are blessed by all their elders with lots of warm wishes and prayers. The ceremony - Manjal Neeru Aduthal (translates into ‘playing with turmeric water’) is one such custom which involves the participation of the younger generation as well. It is held on the wedding day after the main ceremony is over. This is when all the cousins on both sides assemble to have some fun.
The Manjal Neeru Aduthal Ritual
There is be a bowl of manjal neer ie. turmeric water placed before the newly wedded couple. The cousins wash the feet of the bride and groom with this and give a start to an auspicious beginning of the wedding rituals. It symbolises the step taken by the couple into a new life full of exciting and loving experiences.
The other members of the family including the fathers-in-law, dip the tip of their wedding attire in this water too. In the earlier days, they were required to take a bath in turmeric water. However as time passed by, due to many factors, this custom got simplified and remains limited to dipping the tip of the attire only. It is carried out like a formality with all due respect to the family traditions.
Following the customs, and traditions gives a feeling of fulfilment as well as proves to be a good time for getting the family united.