Oonjal, A Wedding Ritual To Relish And Remember!!!

South Indian weddings are always special for the unique rituals that are performed. Especially Tam-Brahm weddings are often exciting with interesting rituals. One interesting rituals amongst them is the Oonjal. Oonjal takes place immediately after the Kasi Yatra & Exchange of Garlands. Oonjal is a swing that is usually beautifully decorated for the Bride and the Bridegroom to be seated and then the swing is gently rocked to and fro.

The married women from the two families sing songs and bless the couple. The atmosphere turns merry with the hymns of Lali lali songs. Then the elder women of the family smear the couple's feet with a mixture of milk and sandalwood paste.  As a sign of merriment, the couple are fed with sweetened milk and bananas. Then yellow and red coloured rice balls are thrown on the couple from the four different directions. The groom then takes the bride for Kanya Dhaanam. This wonderful ritual not only gives joy but wonderful wedding memories to look back...