Coorg (Kodava) Wedding
"The Warrior's Rite"
An anthropological anomaly in Hindu India—the Kodava wedding (Mangala) does not involve Brahmin priests and has no chanting of Vedic mantras around a holy fire. It is grounded in ancestor worship and community witness.
The Ritual Journey
Follow the sacred path from beginning to blessed union
Traditional Attire
The garments that define the celebration
BrideKodava Saree Drape
Silk with unique drapingPleats tucked at back, pallu pinned over right shoulder
GroomKupya & Weapons
Long collarless black coat over white shirt, red silk Chele sash with Peechekathi (dagger), Odikathi (broadsword) at back
Sacred Ornaments
Each piece tells a story of heritage
neckJomale
"Kodava Thali"
Traditional Kodava necklace worn by married women
headPathak
"Forehead Ornament"
Traditional forehead ornament worn by Kodava brides
weaponOdikathi
"Ceremonial Sword"
War knife essential to Kodava identity and Baale Birud ritual
The Wedding Feast
Kodava Feast — Banana Leaf
The non-vegetarian exception—famous for Pandi Curry, reflecting hunting/foraging history
Serving Order
Signature Dishes
Pandi Curry
Dark pork curry with Kachampuli vinegar
Kadambuttu
Steamed rice balls
Baimbale Curry
Bamboo shoot curry
Nool Puttu
String hoppers
Valaga
Traditional Kodava music played during ceremonies and Ganga Puja
What Makes It Unique
No Priest
One of the few Hindu weddings conducted by community elders
Ancestor Worship
Deep emphasis on blessing from ancestors rather than deities
Martial Identity
Reflects Kodava identity as land-owning warrior community