Introduction
Thirandukalyanam, also known as Thirandumangalyam or Thiruandukuli, is a traditional ceremony performed in Kerala when girls attain puberty. The meaning of “kalyanam” in Malayalam is marriage. In the olden days, it was necessary to perform this ritual to marry one’s daughter in the future. It is celebrated on a large scale, as they believe that the goddess Bhagavathy enters her body and that the goddess has to be driven out to bring tranquillity to the young woman. During the ceremony, a copper vessel with coconut flowers is placed near her, symbolizing fertility. The vessel represents the womb, while the flowers represent the ovaries.
Cultural and Historical Roots
The cultural and historical roots of this ceremony originated and were practiced to a great extent in the Nair community, known for its matrilineal system of inheritance. It is also prevalent among the other caste groups, but the duration and process vary within the communities. The belief underlying this tradition is that women play a crucial role in carrying forward the family lineage. Thus, the onset of a girl’s first menstrual period is seen as a significant event ensuring fertility and the continuation of the family across generations.
Rituals Involved
The ceremony involves different rituals and customs that lasted for four or five days, each holding its significance.
On the first day, the women of the family will make a peculiar, loud sound known as kurava to inform the neighbors. The girl will be isolated in a room, and a copper vessel with rice powder and a bunch of coconut flowers will be placed near her as a symbol of fertility. Ulakka (a wooden instrument for pounding paddy) and Choolu (a broom) will also be placed. During this period, the young girl is not allowed to touch or see any male members of the family.
On the second and third days of the ceremony, the young girl is permitted visits from female relatives and friends. During these encounters, older female relatives attend to her, performing a ceremonial bath with turmeric paste and washing her hair with hibiscus extract. The girl adorns herself in new clothes and ornaments during this period. Meanwhile, the Ashtamangalaya function commences at home, marked by the presence of a group of women known as Athikurissi (women belonging to a barbaric community) who will murmur some mantras in the ears of the girl.
On the fourth day, the ceremonial proceedings include a visit to the temple pond, where the girl takes a dip, dons a fresh saree, and embellishes herself with new ornaments. Returning home, a lavish feast awaits the guests. The elders and guests shower her with flowers and rice in a gesture of celebration.
Gifts and Symbolism
Every gift given to her will have its specific symbolism. Relatives usually present gifts such as ornaments and sarees. The saree holds profound significance, representing the girl’s journey from childhood to womanhood. Traditionally, sarees in auspicious colors like yellow or red are chosen for gifting. However, in recent times, alternatives like books, investment bonds, and educational tools have gained popularity as they contribute to fostering prosperous futures for girls.
Recent trends followed
With the emerging times, new trends have been set, such as fancy photo shoots, live music performances, and innovative decorations. Fancy photo sessions have become a popular feature, capturing special moments that serve as a nostalgic journey when revisited. Live music is most common these days for every function, as it makes the event more special and connected to the guests.
Hygiene and Diet
It is important to inform her of the significance of maintaining proper hygiene during this period. To ensure her comfort, choosing more comfortable fabrics is advisable. Additionally, as a way of nourishing her body and preparing for motherhood, she will be offered sweets made of jaggery and rice. Jaggery, being rich in iron, is considered an energizing food, promoting overall well-being.
Conclusion
To conclude, Thirandukalyanam is not just a celebration but a significant acknowledgment of the essence of womanhood, marking a special milestone in young girls’ lives. By embracing this ceremony, there is an opportunity to normalize and destigmatize menstruation, challenging prevalent myths and discrimination surrounding this natural process. It serves as a platform to impart crucial knowledge about maintaining hygiene and adopting a balanced diet during this period, empowering young girls with essential information for their overall well-being. Ultimately, Thirandukalyanam becomes a powerful tool in fostering awareness, understanding, and acceptance of the natural cycles of womanhood.
References
- Coming of Age Ceremonies for Indian Girls. Spriha Society.
https://www.nairs.in/acha_t.htm Accessed on 2 February 2024.
- Thirandukalyanam (First puberty functions).Naira Academy of Information Research and Services. https://www.sprihasociety.org/post/coming-of-age-ceremonies-for-indian-girls.Accessed on 2 February 2024.
- Cultural Heritage Hindu Customs and Rituals. Kerala heritage. https://www.keralaheritage.org/hindu_customs/cultural.Accessed on 2 feburary 2024.
