Ankuraropanam : The Ritual To Ensure The Auspicious & Sacred Event

Ankuraropanam : The practice you described is known as “Mati Puja” or the worship of clay mounds. It is a ritual performed to ensure the auspiciousness of an upcoming event, such as a marriage. Here’s an explanation of the process:

1. Timing: Mati Puja is usually conducted a week before the marriage ceremony on an auspicious tithi (lunar day).
2. Collection of soil: A group of Brahmins, accompanied by musicians playing traditional instruments (Baja Bhajantris) and carrying clay pots (Muttaiyidus), proceed to the east or north direction of the village. They collect good soil from that location, which is considered sacred.
3. Preparation of clay mounds: The collected soil is then used to create five clay mounds. The mounds are shaped symbolically and represent deities or divine entities associated with the marriage ceremony.
4. Offering: New grains mixed with milk are placed on top of each clay mound. Water is sprinkled on the mounds to moisten the soil.
5. Invocation and worship: The respective deities or divine beings associated with the marriage ceremony are invited and worshipped. Mantras and prayers are recited, seeking their blessings for a prosperous and harmonious marriage.
6. Germination and placement: The clay mounds are kept in a safe place and nurtured. Over time, the grains germinate, symbolizing the growth and blossoming of the marital union.
7. Incorporation into the marriage ceremony: On the day of the marriage, the clay mounds are brought to the mandapam (marriage hall) and prominently placed as a part of the decorations. The marriage ceremony takes place in the presence of these sacred clay mounds, signifying the blessings and divine presence.
8. Post-marriage: After the marriage ceremony, the clay mounds are kept until the end of the sixteen-day marriage festivities. They are then utilized according to customs and traditions, which may vary depending on regional practices.

Ankuraropanam & Belief

Mati Puja is believed to invoke divine energies and ensure the successful and prosperous conduct of the marriage ceremony. It is a ritual deeply rooted in Hindu culture, symbolizing the sacredness and sanctity associated with the union of two individuals in marriage.

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