The Nagarathas, otherwise known as Tamil Chettiar community, belong to a special race which has its history that can be traced back to 700AD. They belong to 9 temples in the district of Nagarkovil. The Tamil Nadu Chettiar wedding customs are grand and full of enjoyment. It is a long procedure that lasts up to 6 days. The two families invite relatives and friends to the function and create some very special memories that last a lifetime.
What is Saman Parapudhal?
Any occasion is not complete unless there is an exchange of gifts and presents. The Tamil Chettiar wedding has one special event solely for this purpose called Saman Paraputhal in Chettiar weddings. Saman means items and paraputhal means spreading it across.
Exchanging gifts is a symbol of developing bonds between the two families. It is held auspiciously on the wedding day. As the wedding preparations and celebrations begin, the bride's family displays an array of gifts that they intend to give to their daughter. They also arrange special, thoughtful gifts for the groom and his family too. This is the main intention of this ceremony.
Significance of Saman Parappudal Ritual in Tamil Chettiar Weddings
The groom's family will come to know of the splendour and prosperity of the bride’s family. It is also a sign that her family will be there to support the new couple even if they have any financial need. The new Tamil Chettiar bride and groom are blessed and showered with good wishes from both sides of the families. These gifts consist of a special gift for the groom called Mappilai Saman and one for his mother, called Mammiyar Saman. It is not a one-sided process. The groom's family also brings a collection of gifts for the bride and her family. It mainly includes silk sarees, vessels, cosmetics, flowers, etc.
These Ceremonies and important wedding functions are full of joy and fun. They are a promise of new, happy beginnings for the blessed couple.