This refers to the commencement of the marriage ceremonies.

The marriage ceremonies are traditionally held in the bride's ancestral home with two 'pujaris' officiating. A large 'pandol' or canopy is erected outside the bride's home and decorated with, mango leaves, banana palms and flowers. Traditionally this 'pandol' was made from the barks of palmyra trees.

The oldest member of the bride's family applies 'kumkum' on the groom's forehead, garlands him and escorts him to the marriage venue in a decorated car.

The bride's relatives receive the groom at the entrance to the bride's home welcoming him with the 'aarti' and lead him to the wedding 'mantap' (platform erected for the wedding rites).