South Indian Wedding Traditions Every Couple Should Know
South Indian weddings are a graceful blend of spirituality, symbolism, and celebration. If you're planning your wedding, understanding these time-honored customs will help you embrace the richness of your heritage with deeper meaning.
From sacred timings to joyful post-wedding rituals, here are nine traditions that every couple should know before tying the knot.
1. Muhurtham – Choosing the Right Time
One of the most important aspects of a South Indian wedding is selecting the “Muhurtham”—an astrologically chosen time believed to bring lifelong harmony and prosperity.
2. Kashi Yatra – A Groom’s Light-Hearted Act
This playful ritual sees the groom act as if he’s renouncing worldly pleasures for spiritual life, only to be called back to marry by the bride’s father—a symbolic gesture of responsibility.
3. Tying the Mangalsutra
A sacred thread or chain known as the Mangalsutra is tied by the groom around the bride’s neck, representing their lifelong bond and shared destiny.
4. Kanyadaanam – The Sacred Handing Over
A deeply emotional moment where the bride's parents formally give her away, entrusting her happiness and future to her new partner.
5. Saptapadi – The Seven Vows
As the couple takes seven symbolic steps around the sacred fire, they recite vows that promise love, partnership, prosperity, and mutual respect.
6. Oonjal – The Swing of Balance
The bride and groom are seated on a swing while being gently rocked by family—a reminder of the ups and downs of married life, and how balance is key.
7. Talambralu – Playful Blessings
This Telugu tradition involves the bride and groom showering each other with colored rice, signifying joy, abundance, and companionship through playful affection.
8. Arundhati Darshanam – Guiding Stars
After the rituals, the couple is shown the stars Arundhati and Vashishta—a symbol of an ideal married couple—encouraging unity, loyalty, and wisdom.
9. Wedding Reception – Celebrating Togetherness
The reception marks the beginning of social togetherness, where families unite to celebrate the newlyweds with grandeur, blessings, and joyful festivities.
These traditions are more than rituals—they’re reflections of values, love, and legacy. As you begin your journey together, let these customs deepen your bond and enrich your wedding with timeless beauty.
Discover tradition. Celebrate connection. Begin your forever with meaning.