The Sacred Vows of a Telugu Wedding: Kanyadanam, Mangalya Dharanam & Saptapadi
Telugu Wedding Sacred Vows
The deepest moments of a Telugu wedding — Kanyadanam, Mangalya Dharanam, Saptapadi and more — and what each truly means.
The sacred rituals and their meaning
A few moments in a Telugu wedding carry the deepest significance. Understanding them makes the ceremony more meaningful for the couple and the families witnessing it.
Meaning behind each
Kanyadanam
The bride’s father places her hand in the groom’s and gives her away — considered the highest act of giving (daan) a parent can perform.
Jeelakarra Bellam
Cumin and jaggery placed on the couple’s heads at the muhurtham, symbolising a bond so blended it cannot be separated.
Mangalya Dharanam
The groom ties the mangalsutra in three knots — standing for the bond of thought, word and deed between the couple.
Talambralu
The playful shower of turmeric-rice, a joyful prayer for prosperity and a willingness to share life’s ups and downs.
Saptapadi
Seven steps around Agni, each a vow: for nourishment, strength, prosperity, happiness, progeny, togetherness and lifelong friendship.
Arundhati Darshanam
The couple look upon the star Arundhati, the ideal of devotion, as a model for their married life.
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Frequently asked questions
Q.What are the seven vows of Saptapadi?
The couple take seven steps around Agni, vowing nourishment, strength, prosperity, happiness, progeny, togetherness and lifelong friendship.
Q.Why is the mangalsutra tied three times?
The three knots of Mangalya Dharanam represent the bond of thought, word and deed uniting the couple.
Q.What is Kanyadanam?
Kanyadanam is the giving away of the bride by her father — regarded as the most sacred act of a Hindu wedding.