Music composer Anirudh Ravichander and Sunrisers Hyderabad co-owner Kavya Maran have grabbed headlines following their wedding in Greece on November 11. However, it is not just their grand destination wedding or celebrity guest list that has attracted attention. The couple’s decision to follow a traditional Tamil ceremony known as a ‘Self-Respect Marriage’ has sparked curiosity about this unique wedding practice.
What Is a Self-Respect Marriage?
Also known as ‘Suyamariyathai Thirumanam’ in Tamil, a Self-Respect Marriage is a wedding tradition that originated from the Self-Respect Movement launched by social reformer Periyar E. V. Ramasamy in Tamil Nadu in 1925. The movement aimed to challenge caste discrimination, social inequality and patriarchal customs while promoting individual dignity and equality.Unlike conventional Hindu weddings, this form of marriage does not require a priest, sacred fire or elaborate religious rituals. Instead, the bride and groom declare their commitment to each other in the presence of family members, friends or other witnesses. The ceremony may involve exchanging garlands, rings or a traditional wedding chain, with mutual consent and equality forming its foundation.
When Did This Marriage Tradition Become Legal?
Self-Respect Marriages received legal recognition in Tamil Nadu in 1967 through an amendment to the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. Section 7-A was introduced to recognise marriages conducted through this reformist tradition without requiring conventional religious ceremonies. The provision allows eligible couples to solemnise their marriage through a declaration or the exchange of garlands, rings or other customary symbols in the presence of relatives, friends or witnesses.
Anirudh and Kavya’s wedding has once again brought this lesser-known marriage tradition into the spotlight. Their choice has sparked discussions about how marriage ceremonies can reflect personal beliefs, equality and individual preferences beyond conventional customs.
