Ayyavazhi Marriage - The Manavarai and Panividai

The Manavarai and Panividai

The manavarai is the temporary shed arranged and decorated for performing the marriage ceremony in Ayyavazhi tradition. It was constructed with nine pillars representing the nine planets. Two pillars are situated at each of the four corners and one additional pillar is made of a branch of a banyan tree. The banyan branch symbolizes the prosperous life. It is also decorated with oil lamps and decorative lights and papers.

Usually, if the marriages are conducted at Pathis or Nizhal Thangals the Manavarai is not made. Instead, a raised pedestal is arranged for the bride and bridegroom, in the case of Nizhal Thangals. The Kalyana Vazhthu is also sung in Thangals. Also in Pathis other than Swamithope pathi, the ceremony is the same. But if the marriages are conducted in Swamithoppe Pathi, the couple is made to stand in front of the Pathi. The bridegroom ties the Golden Thali (wedding badge) around the neck of the bride while standing. No Kalyana Vazhthu is sung believing as the belief in Swamithoppe is that all divine powers are existing and no need to invite them by singing the Kalyana Vazhthu.

Namam, Patham, Jasmine, Coconut, Bananas, lemons, betel and areca nut are considered auspicious objects and are kept and treated sacredly. Including all these a Panividai is kept in the Kamanam assumed religiously as for inviting Ayya there in the marriage -shed. No other objects such as arathi, Camphor or fragrant sticks are used in the Ayyavazhi marriages.