Introduction to a Quietly Spectacular Tradition
In Shringavarapukota town of Vizianagaram district, a distinctive wedding rite continues to weave culture, faith, and community into the fabric of life. Known locally as the Field Crossing and Tali ritual, it is observed by Arya Vaishya families during their weddings. Although the main ceremonies take place in town venues, the muhurtham moment compels the couple to cross a polimera—an open field boundary—and then return to complete the sacred tying of the tali (mangalsutra). This unusual sequence has persisted for generations as a living symbol of identity and shared heritage.
The Belief Behind the Custom
Historical lore rooted in local belief explains the ritual through a principle tied to the goddess Erukamma Perantalamma. Some elders say that a curse, associated with the village goddess Erukamma’s festival, sparked a ritual that would safeguard and bless the newlyweds as they approach married life. Thus, every family visits a boundary of the town, leads the couple across to the other side, and, after the sacred tying of the tali, brings them back into the heart of their community. The crossing is more than a gesture; it is a shared pledge that their union begins with collective goodwill and a blessing from the world beyond the immediate family temple.
How the Ritual Unfolds
Traditionally, all major wedding proceedings—the household songs, the Kalyaan mandap, and the feast—happen within the village. But as the muhurtham moment arrives, the bride and groom are escorted to the field boundary for the crossing. At the far edge of the field, the tali is tied, and the couple is guided back into the town to finish the remaining nuptial rites. This sequence is carried out with reverence and the involvement of close family members, and it remains a highlight that neighbors eagerly anticipate during celebrations.
Adaptations Over Time
While the ritual used to be a universal feature of Arya Vaishya weddings in the area, recent years have seen some shifts. A growing number of couples prefer to conduct most or all ceremonies within a village or temple precinct for convenience or space reasons. Responding to demand, a modern facility known as the Vasavi Kalyaana Mandapam has been established in Dharamvaram village, roughly 5 kilometers from Shringavarapukot, providing a dedicated venue that honors tradition while accommodating larger crowds. A local businessperson even noted that while most wedding tasks occurred at home, the actual tali was tied at a nearby ashram, underscoring the blend of old custom with practical adaptation.
Social Significance and Community Pride
These customs are not merely relics; they reflect a sense of social fabric and continuity. The ritual ties families across generations, reinforces communal bonds, and gives the town a unique cultural fingerprint that locals carry with pride. The familiar question, “Pelli ikkha tala ekkada?”—“Where will the wedding be, and where will the tali be tied?”—has become a local catchphrase that signals belonging and shared memory. In a world of rapid change, such rituals offer a steady anchor for communities, enabling younger members to learn a lineage of beliefs and practices that shape their collective identity.
Should the Tradition Evolve?
Like many ancient rites, the field crossing tradition sparks discussion about its future. Some argue for preserving the full ceremony, while others advocate flexible adaptations that respect the spirit of the custom but reflect modern logistics and sensitivities. For now, Vizianagaram’s townsfolk largely view the ritual as a cherished hallmark of their heritage—one that continues to evolve while remaining anchored to its roots. The emergence of dedicated venues and the continued willingness of families to participate on the boundary simply demonstrate that this tradition can adapt without losing its essence.
A Trend Yet to Be Fully Rewritten
New wedding practices are also shaping how the crossing ritual is experienced. An emerging trend among some couples is to minimize or even forgo formal photo shoots of the crossing moment, choosing instead to anchor memories in the immediacy of the ceremony itself. Others still document the event carefully, ensuring that future generations understand and remember the field-boundary crossing as a living thread in their family stories. Either way, the question remains a source of pride and curiosity in the community: the field crossing and tali remains a distinctive emblem of Vizianagaram’s wedding soul.
