Kerala Muslim Wedding

The Land and the People

Kerala Muslim weddings are held by the Muslim families of Kerala. They are most popular in the Malabar area, around Kozhikode, Malappuram and Kannur. The Muslims of this region are also called Mappilas. They have lived in Kerala for many centuries and have a rich culture of their own.

Many Kerala Muslim families live in the Gulf countries and hold weddings back home. The weddings follow Islamic rules with local Kerala customs. The mix of faith and local tradition gives the wedding a special charm. Malabar is also famous for its food, and the wedding feast is a highlight.

How Long the Wedding Lasts

A Kerala Muslim wedding usually takes two to three days. The main Nikah is often held in one day. The days before are for small functions and family gatherings. After the Nikah, the families hold a big feast, and the celebrations may continue for a day or two.

Before the Wedding

The groom’s family first visits the bride’s home, and this is called Pennukaanal. Pennukaanal means seeing the girl. The groom and his family meet the bride and her family. They talk, share tea and snacks and get to know each other. The bride’s family also learns about the groom.

Then the families agree on the match in Manasammatham. This word means agreement of hearts. The two families fix the date for the wedding and talk about gifts. The elders bless the couple, and the families share sweets.

On the night before the wedding, women gather for a Mehndi night, called Mailanchi Raavu. Mailanchi is the word for henna. They sing traditional songs and apply henna. The songs are called Oppana, and they are often sung by groups of women, who clap and dance in a circle. The bride’s hands and feet are decorated with henna. The night is full of laughter and love.

The Wedding Day

The main ceremony is the Nikah, which is held at the mosque or the bride’s home. The groom sits with the religious leader and the elders. The bride agrees to the wedding through her guardian. The religious leader reads the prayers, and the groom promises Mahr to the bride. Witnesses are present for the Nikah. They watch, listen and sign the papers.

After the Nikah, the groom and the bride are greeted by their relatives. The guests congratulate the groom and offer prayers for the couple. The groom then goes to the bride to meet her. After the wedding, the families hold a big feast called Walima. It is hosted by the groom’s family, and it is a way of sharing joy with the community.

Clothes and Jewelry

The bride wears a golden sari or lehenga with heavy gold jewelry. Kerala brides are known for wearing a lot of gold, and the gold is a symbol of the family’s love. She also wears a headscarf or a veil. The groom wears a white shirt and mundu, or a suit. The dress is neat and rich.

Food, Music and Fun

The feast is famous for Malabar Biryani, especially Thalassery Biryani. The biryani is made with small-grain rice, meat, spices and fried onions, and it has a sweet and rich smell. Sweets, snacks and tea are served in plenty. There are many snacks such as pathiri, snacks made of banana and sweet dishes. The songs and the food make a Kerala Muslim wedding a warm and rich celebration.