Pelli Choopulu
Meeting the families
Elders of both families meet, and the bride and groom see each other. If both families are happy, the proposal moves forward.
The wedding traditions our families hold dear
A Kalinga wedding is not just the union of two people — it brings two families together. Our weddings follow the vedic traditions of the Telugu and Kalinga regions, guided by elders and the family priest. Below are the customs most families follow, in the order they usually take place.
Customs can differ from family to family and village to village. Always follow the guidance of your elders and purohit.
Elders of both families meet, and the bride and groom see each other. If both families are happy, the proposal moves forward.
Horoscopes (jathakam) and stars are matched by the family priest. Families also check gothram, as marriage within the same gothram is traditionally avoided.
The match is confirmed in the presence of elders. Tamboolam (betel leaves, fruits and gifts) is exchanged and the muhurtham (auspicious wedding time) is fixed.
Turmeric is applied to the bride and groom by married women of the family, followed by a sacred bath. From here they are called Pelli Kuthuru (bride) and Pelli Koduku (groom).
The bride's parents offer their daughter's hand to the groom, asking him to care for her through dharma, artha and kama.
At the exact muhurtham, the bride and groom place a paste of cumin and jaggery on each other's head — a symbol that they will stay together through bitter and sweet times.
The groom ties the sacred mangalsutram around the bride's neck with three knots, while the vedic mantras and nadaswaram fill the hall.
The couple pour turmeric-coloured rice (akshintalu) over each other's heads — a joyful moment wishing prosperity and abundance.
The couple take seven steps around the sacred fire, each step a vow. The groom puts silver toe rings (mettelu) on the bride's feet.
The couple are shown the Arundhati star, the symbol of a faithful and lasting marriage.
An emotional farewell in which the bride's parents hand her over to the groom's family, asking them to treat her as their own.
After the wedding, many families perform the Satyanarayana Swamy Vratham at the groom's home to seek blessings for the new couple.
Find a match from a family that shares your values, gothram awareness and traditions.
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