Knanaya Wedding: A Blend of Tradition and Elegance

In Christian weddings, Knanaya weddings stand out for their unique customs and values, setting them apart from the rest.

Knanaya ceremonies are steeped in distinctive customs that have been passed down through generations. These rituals paint a picture of matrimonial bliss that is both timeless and captivating. Also, their weddings beautifully blend simplicity with profound elegance, creating a unique and genuine matrimonial experience.

I’m Mejo K John, the proud owner of Eden Wedding Planner. Over the years, we’ve organized numerous Knanaya weddings in Kottayam and around. This blog is your guide to the special customs and traditions that make these ceremonies stand out. We’ll also share stories of how we’ve supported our clients in creating unforgettable Knanaya weddings. Also, picking us means choosing a truly one-of-a-kind wedding experience. Let’s explore the charm of Knanaya weddings together!

A Glimpse into Knanaya Wedding Customs

Let’s take a closer look at the special traditions in Knanaya weddings –

1. Kaipidutham (Clasping of Hands)

Source – Tamarind Weddings

A symbolic agreement for marriage, where parental relatives of the groom and bride clasp hands, sealing the commitment.

2. Henna Beautification

Source – Tamarind Weddings

The bride is adorned with henna (mylanchi) on her palms and feet, a traditional and intricate beautification ritual.

3. Chantham Charthal (Ceremonial Shaving)

The groom undergoes a ceremonial shave by a barber, known as Chantham Charthal, marking his beautification for the wedding.

4. Inclusivity of Other Communities

Various individuals, including a panan (singer) and a goldsmith, play essential roles in the ceremonies, showcasing community inclusivity.

5. Ichappad (Offering Sweet Pudding)

Source – Tamarind Weddings

Elders offer sweet pudding to the groom & bride, adding a sweet touch to the ceremony.

6. Venpachor (Coconut Milk Rice)

The wedding banquet includes venpachor, white rice cooked in coconut milk, symbolizing ancestral dietary practices.

7. Thali Tying with Seven-Yarn Thread

The thali is tied using a thread made of seven yarns taken from the bridal veil, symbolizing unity.

8. Nadavili (Shouting Nata, Nata)

Shouting during the wedding procession, known as Nadavili, adds lively energy to the celebrations.

9. Reception with Koluvilakku (Special Lamp)

Source – Blogspot

The mother of the groom gives a special lamp, koluvilakku, as a reception gesture to the bride and groom.

10. Royal Seating Under Manarkolam

The couple is seated on an elevated seat (Manarkolam) under a canopy, reminiscent of the Jewish huppa, symbolizing royalty.

11. Palum Pazhavum (Milk and Fruit Offering)

The couple drinks milk and fruit from the same cup, symbolizing unity in Palum Pazhavum.

12. Vazhupidutham (Blessing Gesture)

Source – Tamarind Weddings

The mother of the groom blesses the couple by placing her hands crosswise over their heads, known as Vazhupidutham.

13. Cultural Affinities with Jewish Traditions

Similarities in traditions, like using Venthanmudy (Royal crown), highlight a cultural affinity between Knanaya and Jewish customs.

14. Role of Women and Ceremonial Songs

Women play significant roles, and special songs add a unique charm to the ceremonies.

15. Asking Permission

Those with key roles seek permission thrice before starting ceremonies, emphasizing respect and tradition in the Knanaya wedding customs.

Apart from these, 4 popular customs make the ceremony full of love and charm, from meaningful rituals to long-standing traditions. These include:

a. Othukalyanam

Othukalyanam is the traditional engagement ceremony in Knanaya weddings. During this event, the families formally announce and celebrate the union of the couple. The highlight of Othukalyanam is the exchange of betel leaves and nuts between the bride and groom, symbolizing the acceptance of each other as life partners. This ceremony marks the official beginning of the wedding festivities and sets the tone for the upcoming celebrations.

b. Mylanchi Ideel

Mylanchi Ideel, also known as Haldi or Pithi ceremony in other cultures, is a vibrant pre-wedding ritual where a paste made from turmeric, sandalwood, and other herbs, known as haldi is applied to the bride and groom. This fragrant mixture is believed to purify and beautify the couple, ensuring a radiant start to their married life. Mylanchi Ideel is a joyful occasion filled with music, laughter, and the warmth of familial bonds.

c. Chantham Chaarthu

Chantham Chaarthu is a unique and symbolic ritual where the bride and groom exchange garlands made of jasmine flowers. This exchange represents the mutual acceptance of each other and signifies the unity of two families. The fragrance of jasmine is believed to bring positivity and blessings to the couple. Chantham Chaarthu adds a touch of floral elegance to the wedding ceremony and is a beautiful expression of love and commitment.

d. Final Wedding Ceremony

The Final Wedding Ceremony is the culmination of all the preceding customs and rituals. It includes the sacred exchange of vows, the tying of the nuptial knot, and the solemnization of the marriage. This ceremony is typically conducted in a church or a place of worship, and it formalizes the union of the couple in the presence of family, friends, and the divine. The Final Wedding Ceremony is a profound and joyous moment, marking the beginning of the couple’s journey as life partners.

Role of Eden Wedding Planners in Knanaya Wedding Ceremony

At Eden Wedding Planner, we take pride in ensuring that every step is a seamless and joyous experience for the bride, groom, and their families. We take care of every small to big responsibility that our clients expect to be handled. Let’s see how we make planning easy and enjoyable for the bride, groom, and their families.

Let’s have a look on our professional services –

1. Initial Consultation

At the start, Eden Wedding Planner sits down with the couple and their families for a friendly chat. We want to hear all about their dreams and wishes to make sure their Knanaya wedding is just as they imagine.

2. Budget Ideation

We know weddings can be expensive, so we work closely with everyone to figure out a budget that works. From picking the perfect venue to deciding on decorations, we make sure everything fits the budget without compromising the dream.

3.  Selection of Services

Eden Wedding Planner makes picking services easy. We have a bunch of awesome options from reliable vendors, so the couple can choose what suits them best. Whether it’s flowers or photos, we help make sure everything adds to the magic of their Knanaya wedding.

4. Pre-Wedding Activities

• Best Vendors: We meticulously select reliable vendors for a seamless celebration.
• Venue Selection: Find the perfect venue aligned with your vision for a memorable backdrop.
• Guest List Preparation: We organize guest numbers, and origins, ensuring everyone feels warmly welcomed.
• Menu Curation: Our team collaborates with top caterers to create a flavorful menu.
• Theme Selection: Collaborate with Eden to finalize a theme reflecting your unique style.
• Pre-wedding Events: Eden arranges engaging pre-wedding events, making each gathering memorable.

5. Wedding Day Coordination

We plan and organize everything for your special day. From talking to all the people involved to setting up everything just right, we handle the details so you can enjoy your day stress-free.

6. Guest Transfers

No need to worry about wedding transfers! We make sure your guests get to the venue comfortably and on time. Whether it’s arranging rides or sorting out parking, we’ve got it covered.

7. Vendor Supervision

We work closely with all the people providing services to make sure everything goes according to plan. From food to decorations, we make sure everyone is on the same page and doing their best for your day.

8. On-Time Commencement of Wedding Rituals

Being on time is important, especially on your wedding day. We make sure all the special moments start when they’re supposed to, so you can enjoy every second without any delays.

9. Post-Wedding Activities

• Settling Bills with Vendors: Once the celebration is over, Eden makes sure all the bills with vendors are paid. You can relax and enjoy being newlyweds while we handle the financial stuff.
• Sending Guests Off: We arrange safe rides for guests going to the airport or train station, making sure everyone leaves smoothly after the festivities.
• Keeping Gifts Safe: Your gifts are in good hands with us. We take care of them and hand them over to your family, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
• Checking the Venue: Before you head off, we double-check the venue to make sure nothing gets left behind. Our goal is to leave with only the memories, making your post-wedding experience stress-free.

At Eden Wedding Planner, our commitment is to turn dreams into reality, creating Knanaya weddings that are not only beautiful but also stress-free and filled with cherished moments.

Eden Wedding Planner: Your Premier Wedding Partner

Discover the unparalleled expertise of Eden, renowned as the best wedding planner in Kottayam. With a remarkable 34 years of experience, we specialize in curating extraordinary Knanaya weddings that reflect the uniqueness of your love story. Having orchestrated over 5000 weddings, Eden is not just a planner; we are the architects of unforgettable celebrations, ensuring your special day is nothing short of perfection. Trust us to bring your dreams to life and make your wedding day a cherished masterpiece.

Why Choose Eden Wedding Planner for Your Knanaya Wedding

If you’re planning a Knanaya wedding, here’s why Eden is the perfect choice to make your special day unforgettable:

Cultural Understanding: Eden comprehends the importance of every Knanaya custom, ensuring that each tradition is honored and celebrated in its unique way.
Personalized Touch: Our expert team excels in adding a personal touch to your wedding, tailoring every detail to reflect your love story and make your day truly special.
Professional Excellence: With a dedicated and professional team, Eden ensures that your wedding day is executed with precision, leaving you free to enjoy every moment.
Tailored Packages: Choose from various packages that suit your requirements. Whether you’re looking for a grand celebration or an intimate affair, Eden has the perfect package for you.
Extensive Vendor Network: Benefit from our vast network of trusted vendors, ensuring quality services for every aspect of your Knanaya wedding.
Comprehensive Services: Eden offers a plethora of services, covering everything from planning to execution. From pre-wedding to post-wedding activities, we’ve got you covered.

At Eden, we go beyond being wedding planners; we become partners in crafting the perfect Knanaya wedding that reflects your unique love story. Trust us to bring your vision to life and make your celebration an extraordinary experience.

Transform your Knanaya wedding dreams into reality with Eden Wedding Planner!

About the Author

Mejo K John

Owner of Eden Wedding Planner, Kottayam

Mejo K John

Owner of Eden Wedding Planner, Kottayam

Eden Wedding Planner is 34 year old premium service provider in Kerala from Kottayam. Being a part of my father's venture till date we have organized over 5000 weddings across India. We are specialized in planning unforgettable Hindu, Christian, and Knanaya weddings.