‘Self-Respect’ Marriages stand as a refreshing alternative. These ceremonies, introduced by the Dravidian movement, reject the excesses of traditional weddings and emphasize simplicity, equality, and mutual commitment.
Bp. Dr. J Ravikumar Stephen G.
I am delighted to share the joyous union of Adv. Prince Ennarassu and Prof. Dr Dipika. This long-awaited marriage is a testament to the principles of mutual respect and love. Adv. Ennarassu, Deputy General Secretary of the Dravidar Kazhagam and head of its stage and media wing, and Dr. Dipika, Assistant Professor of Archaeology and Museology at Madras Christian College, Chennai, have entered into a marital partnership rooted in the values of simplicity and equality. On behalf of the Dravidianism Revival Centre, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the couple.
The Essence of ‘Self-Respect’ Marriages
In a nation often captivated by extravagant, ostentatious weddings that drain lifetime savings and mirror outdated royal traditions, ‘Self-Respect’ Marriages stand as a refreshing alternative. These ceremonies, introduced by the Dravidian movement, reject the excesses of traditional weddings and emphasize simplicity, equality, and mutual commitment.
In a ‘Self-Respect’ Marriage:
- The couple declares their commitment publicly in the presence of an elder who solemnizes the wedding.
- The ritual is minimal, often involving only an exchange of floral garlands.
- Symbols of patriarchy, like the *mangalsutra*, are omitted or replaced with mutual symbols of commitment, such as rings, if desired.
- There is no elaborate attire; both bride and groom dress in their regular, practical outfits, showcasing simplicity and rejecting societal pressures.
To understand this meaningful tradition, watch the video of Adv. Prince Ennarassu and Dr. Dipika’s wedding solemnized by Asiriyar Adv. Dr. K. Veeramani, President of the Dravidar Kazhagam:
Legal Recognition of Self-Respect Marriages
The Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 1967, introduced Section 7-A into the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, legalizing self-respect and secular marriages for Hindus in Tamil Nadu. These marriages, like all others, require proper registration under the law. It is my hope that this progressive provision will one day extend to all of India, promoting simplicity, equality, and social reform nationwide.
Let us celebrate this beautiful union and the values it upholds, breaking away from archaic traditions and embracing a future where love, equality, and mutual respect take precedence.
Read – Beyond Borders: Dravidianism’s Historical Ties and the Call for Modern Revival
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Dr. J Ravikumar Stephen G., is the Founder, Dravidianism Revival Centre, Peace Coalition of the People of South Asia, and Sages of the New Covenant. He is also the Presiding Bishop of General Convention of the Episcopal Churches in Southern and South Eastern Asia. The Dravidianism Revival Centre is located in Badlapur, Greater Thane Maharashtra, India. Emal: Peace.Evangelist@gmail.com
