Kongu Wedding

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by weddingphotography1

by weddingphotography1

As a wedding photographer, each ceremony I capture brings its own unique story, and Abishek and Keerthana's Kongu wedding was no exception. Held amidst their closest friends and family, their wedding was a vibrant blend of Kongu traditions, rituals, and love. Every moment, from the laughter shared during rituals to the solemn vows made, was filled with cultural pride and warmth.

1. நிச்சயதார்த்தம் (Nichayathartham) – The Beginning of Forever
The day began with the Nichayathartham, or engagement ceremony. The air was filled with anticipation as families exchanged rings, marking Abishek and Keerthana's formal union. As I captured their shy smiles and exchanged glances, it was clear that this was the beginning of a lifetime of happiness. The families gathered around them, showering blessings and love, setting the tone for the wedding festivities.

2. ஆக்கை சுற்றிப் போடுதல் (Aakkai Sutri Poduthal) – A Prayer for Stability
One of the most symbolic rituals was the Aakkai Sutri Poduthal, where the family gathered around a central pillar, tying sacred threads as a symbol of protection for the couple. With each thread tied, the elders whispered blessings and prayers, wishing Abishek and Keerthana a harmonious life together. Capturing these emotions – the serious, thoughtful expressions of the elders and the quiet gratitude on the couple's faces – was truly touching.

3. செஞ்சோறு அஞ்சடை கழித்தல் (Senchoru Anjadai Kazhithal) – A Blessing of Prosperity
In this ritual, red rice was blessed by the elders and sprinkled over Abishek and Keerthana. As a photographer, I loved capturing the spontaneous joy on their faces, surrounded by loved ones who symbolically shielded them from negativity. This was a true Kongu moment, with colors, smiles, and blessings all captured in one frame.

4. காப்புக் கட்டுதல் (Kappu Kattudhal) – The Sacred Promise
The Kappu Kattudhal was one of the more solemn moments, as Abishek's family tied a sacred thread on his wrist, symbolizing his vow to protect Keerthana. The pride and responsibility in his eyes as he received this blessing from his family were palpable, and it was a moment I knew they would cherish forever. This ritual brought out the essence of Kongu values: honor, responsibility, and protection.

5. நாட்டுக்கல் வழிபாடு (Nattukal Vazhipadu) – Honoring Ancestral Spirits
The Nattukal Vazhipadu ritual was a beautiful moment of reverence, where the families paid homage to their ancestors. Under the open sky, Abishek and Keerthana's families offered prayers, seeking blessings from past generations. I captured them with bowed heads, surrounded by relatives who held them close in a circle of love and respect, grounding them in tradition.

6. இணைச்சீர் (Inaichir) – The Joy of Exchange
The Inaichir ceremony, where both families exchanged gifts, brought an air of celebration. The joy on everyone's faces was contagious as they presented each other with gifts symbolizing their acceptance and unity. Capturing these colorful exchanges, I could feel the bond between the families strengthening, filling the room with laughter and excitement.

7. கூடைச்சீர் (Kudaichir) – The Gift Baskets
In Kudaichir, beautifully decorated baskets filled with gifts were exchanged, each one crafted with love. The families took pride in the offerings they presented, showcasing the richness of Kongu culture. As the baskets passed from hand to hand, I focused on capturing the intricate details and the significance behind each item, adding depth to the story of their union.

8. பெண்ணெடுத்தல் (Penneduthal) – Welcoming the Bride
In a heartwarming moment, Keerthana was formally welcomed into Abishek's family during Penneduthal. Her nervous excitement was met with warm smiles and open arms from her new family, creating a deeply emotional moment. From a photographer's lens, this transition felt profound, as her journey from daughter to daughter-in-law was completed with love and joy.

9. அருகு மணம் (Arugu Manam) – Preparing the Groom
The Arugu Manam ceremony focused on adorning Abishek in traditional attire, readying him to take on his role as husband. Family members joined in, dressing him with care and respect. Capturing Abishek's transformation and the pride in his family's eyes was a true testament to Kongu culture and its celebration of family values.

10. பாத அணி அணிதல் (Patha Ani Anithal) – Blessings of the Sacred Feet
The Patha Ani Anithal was a humble yet powerful ritual, where Abishek and Keerthana's family members ceremonially washed and adorned their feet. This act was a blessing, symbolizing a prosperous journey ahead. As I clicked away, I focused on the couple's expressions – the calmness on their faces and the genuine smiles from their families reflected the depth of this tradition.

Photographing Abishek and Keerthana's wedding was an incredible journey through the heart of Kongu culture. Every ritual held a story, every glance shared a promise, and every blessing carried a lifetime of heritage. Through my lens, I witnessed the beauty of a Kongu wedding that was both timeless and unforgettable.