Thirumana Padalgal

In a Hindu arranged marriage there are various rituals and customs. The day before the actual marriage, there is vratham, pallikai telliccal, jaanvasam and niciya taartam. The marriage day starts with mangla snanam, kaasi yatirai, maalai maatral (exchange of garlands), oonjal and the key event kanyadaanam/ muhuurtam.

Onjal rite is believed to prevent evil forces from disrupting the wedding ceremony. Another rite to achieve a similar end, involves the womenfolk going around the couple four times, holding in their hands a lamp or alternately, a container of water. Songs called Oonjal Paattu are sung during these rites.

List Of Songs:

1. Gowri Kalyaana Vaibhokame
2. Maalai Chaththinaal
3. Manmathanukku Maalaiyittaaye
4. Rathna Oonjalil
5. Nandi Muhanukku
6. Kannoonjal Aadi
7. Sri Rama Jaya Jaya
8. Aanandam Aanandam
9. Bhojanam Cheyya Vaarungo
10. Nalangida Vaarum Raajaa
11. Nalangidykiral Meenalochani
12. Mangalam

Gowri Kalyaana Vaibhokame - Generic all-purpose song, usually sung at the time of 'aarathi'.

Aanandam Aanandam - Usually sung immediately ater 'ketti mELam' ! ( after the knot is tied).

Maalai Chaththinaal - On the day of the marriage, the bride and the groom sit on the shoulders of their uncles and exchange garlands. This song is appropriate for that time (but there will be so much excitement and commotion at that time, nobody would listen to you even if you sing :-)

Sri Rama Jaya Jaya - Here are two general purpose songs.