The cultural heritage of the Chettiar community can be traced back to 700 AD. This community has always been seen and respected as an epitome of pride and power. They have proved their position in the business world and are forever striving towards progress and prosperity. The Chettiar community strongly believes in tradition and is famous for upholding age-old customs. They pay great respect to their ancestral heritage and are firm in their cultural belief system. Hence all the rituals are followed in any function, be it a Chettinad marriage, housewarming, child naming ceremony, etc. Read on to understand the significance of this ritual:
The Significance of Pen Edukki Kattuthal in Tamil Chettiar Weddings
Pen Edukki Kattuthal is an interesting ceremony that takes place in Chettiar weddings. The rituals often go on for three days and turn out to be a great bonding time for family and friends alike. They make sure that the entire family gathers together and participates in all the functions wholeheartedly. The Pen Edukki Kattuthal can be considered to be one of the most important pre-wedding Tamil marriage ceremonies. This ceremony is a perfect example of how much trust the younger generation places in the hands of the elders of the family. You would be surprised to know that the groom doesn't see his bride before the wedding day. The elders and relatives of the groom visit the girl’s family for all the initial stages of fixing the marriage.
The Pen Edukki Kattuthal Ritual
The Pen Edukki Kattuthal function happens on the morning of the wedding day. The bride is brought to the door of her house after the groom and his family reach the venue. This is when the groom gets to officially meet his bride to be. Such was the trust and understanding that the elders would choose a suitable bride for him.
These days, as technology and the mindset of people has changed, there are exceptions to this custom. However, most ceremonies are still being followed as per the beautiful Chettiar tradition.