3rd February - Wedding Day - Part II

Malai Maatral

Next came one of the most eagerly anticipated rituals—Malai Maatral, the exchange of garlands between the bride and groom. In earlier times, when the bride and groom were usually quite young, the mamas would hoist them on their shoulders to make the exchange a little playful. The tradition continues even today—much to the enjoyment of friends and family. 

These days, though, it’s more of a team effort. A full “cricket team” of able-bodied relatives lifted Sanjiv and Priya, turning the garland exchange into a lively, laughter-filled event. It was an energetic affair for those doing the lifting, but both bride and groom had solid teams behind them—and the garland ceremony was pulled off flawlessly.

The Oonjal Ceremony

Immediately after the Maalai Maatral, Sanjiv, holding Priya’s hand, made his way towards the beautifully decorated oonjal (swing). Behind the swing stood sumangalis from Sanjiv’s family, resplendent in bright silk sarees and holding a variety of seer bakshanam (traditional sweets and savories). Sanjiv and Priya were seated on the swing, which gently swayed back and forth.

Meanwhile, sumangalis from Priya’s family, also dressed in vibrant silk sarees, began the pidi chuthal ritual. Small balls of red and yellow cooked rice were circled in their palms and tossed in all directions to ward off the evil eye. Small quantities of cut banana pieces & milk was offered to Sanjiv & Priya. Following this, the women, carrying an assortment of puja items, circumambulated the swing in a clockwise direction as a gesture of blessing.

Traditionally, this ritual is accompanied by the singing of age-old wedding songs by the assembled ladies. In many families, women prepare for weeks in advance—rehearsing lyrics and harmonies—to showcase their musical talents on the big day.

But at this wedding, something unexpected and rather delightful unfolded.

As the ladies paused between songs, Arjun—Geetha’s friend’s father, a retired and modest gentleman—quietly approached the gathering. Seizing the moment, he began singing, joined enthusiastically by his daughter Maya. What followed was a marathon musical session, with Arjun belting out a string of classic Tamil songs that were perfectly suited to the occasion—though not typically heard during the oonjal.

It felt like an “impact player” moment in cricket: walking in and scoring an unbeaten century at a breathtaking strike rate. His impromptu performance was not only a crowd-pleaser but also added a unique charm to the morning's proceedings—one that guests would fondly remember.

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