An ethnographic description of a Tamil-Hindu marriage in Durban

The marriage of a Tamil-speaking Hindu family is described from the beginning of negotiations between the two family-groups to the establishment of the girl in her husband's family home. The family of the boy takes the initiative in asking for a girl. Caste endogamy is the rule, and formerly (and to a limited extent at present) marriage with specific kin was.preferred. Other factors, such as physical appearance and family reputation, are also very relevant in choice of a spouse. The final decisions and all subsequent activities are referred for sanction to the panchang (calendar).Negotiations, if satisfactory, lead to a formal engagement which is a binding contract solemnized at the girl's home. The marriage ceremony itself takes place at the groom's (or in a hall hired by his family). The prayers and rites are very elaborate, and symbolize the ‘binding together’ of the couple, their purification and their benediction through the elements, their future responsibilities and status. The central rite is the ‘tying of the tali (a special gold ornament) by the groom round the neck of the bride. The approval of this marriage by the km of both parties is expressed in ceremonial gift giving.The young couple are introduced by gradual stages to their new status, and three months after marriage a final ceremony is performed for the girl at their mother's home. Though marriage is predominantly patri-local the girl retains strong links with her own kin throughout her married life.