5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
In this ceremony, the groom, dressed in traditional attire, is taken in a decorated car or chariot in a procession to the wedding venue. Upon reaching the venue, the bride's family welcomes the groom with aarti and garlands. The Jaanavaasam is traditionally a way to introduce the groom to the bride’s family and announce the wedding in a grand manner.
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Rituals: 1. Kasi Yaatrai: The groom pretends to journey to Kashi as an ascetic, only to be interrupted and convinced of the merits of married life. 2. Maalai Maatral: In this lively ceremony, the bride and groom, often playfully hindered by friends and relatives, exchange garlands thrice. 3. Oonjal: In the Oonjal ritual, the marrying couple sits on a swing, symbolizing an unbreakable divine bond and life's fluctuations, while surrounded by women singing praises, representing the pursuit of inner peace and stability amidst change. 4. Muhurtam: The mangala sutra, shaped as per the groom's family custom, is tied around the bride’s neck in three knots; the groom ties the first amid mantra chanting, and his sister ties the remaining two. 5. Saptapadhi: ‘Sapta-padhi’ is vital for the completion of the marriage. The groom takes the right foot of the bride and makes her take seven steps with prayers for her happiness, well-being and prosperity.
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The Nalangu is a playful and informal ceremony aimed at making the bride and groom comfortable around each other. During this ritual, the couple engages in light-hearted activities such as playing games, singing, and applying kumkum (vermilion) and sandalwood paste on each other, fostering bonding and camaraderie. The atmosphere is relaxed and jovial, with family members and friends participating, creating a joyful and festive environment and helping the newlyweds ease into their new relationship.
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm