Beulah, the Headmaster's daughter here at Madiripuram is to be married this month. It is an arranged marriage and even among the young Christian society is felt to be the best way. The engagement ceremony was arranged after the couple met for the first time and agreed to the marriage. Although we were invited (beautiful and ornate invitations) to both the Betrothal ceremony and the wedding we were really disappointed to learn that we will no longer be at this project as the Bishop, who will conduct the ceremonies, requires our room!
We were consoled by an invitation to the Nalugu ceremony which took place last night. In my best sari & Paul in his smartest Indian attire we walked next door but one to the Headmaster's house. The path was intricately decorated with chalk rangoli patterns; the hostel boys were stringing mango leaves where ever they could, and we were welcomed with a paste of sandalwood and turmeric; on the hand for Paul, under the chin and all over the feet for me.
Many visitors were there, summoned by the drums, it was really difficult to make yourself heard over them! The bride to be and a young girl (part of he tradition) were seated on low stools in the middle of all. Hymns were sung, the band now with the addition of a clarinet, a Bible reading, talk & prayers followed. Then the fun began. One by one we put three helpings of rice grain on their heads and gave them a blessing. The women then took oil, water, turmeric and sandalwood paste and plastered it where they could on the bride to be.
It was good that Beulah was not wearing her best sari as some of the women were rather bold in their reach! Snacks served on mango leaves followed; savoury nibbles, sweets, a very hard nut and a banana for each person. A washed Beulah appeared in a beautiful new sari bought by her parents. A very happy evening which ended with a meal with Martin Luther (the Head), his extended family and the neighbours.
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