Draft:Mantra Mangalya marriage

Mantra Mangalya is a progressive and simplified wedding ceremony conceptualized by the renowned Kannada writer and poet Kuvempu (Kuppalli Venkatappa Puttappa). Established as an alternative to traditional, ritual-heavy, and often expensive matrimonial practices, Mantra Mangalya emphasizes simplicity, rationality, and equality, aligning with Kuvempu's vision of a casteless and egalitarian society.

Origins and Philosophy

Kuvempu introduced Mantra Mangalya as part of his broader ethical ideal of Vishvamanava (Universal Human), which advocates for transcending narrow community identities and embracing universal human values. The ceremony eliminates the need for priests, elaborate rituals, and dowries, focusing instead on the mutual consent and commitment of the bride and groom. It encourages inter-caste and inter-religious marriages, promoting social harmony and individual autonomy.

Ceremony Structure

The Mantra Mangalya ceremony is characterized by:

Simplicity: The event is devoid of ostentation, with a limited guest list comprising close family and friends, typically not exceeding 200 attendees.

Absence of Priests: Family elders or well-wishers officiate the ceremony, eliminating the necessity for traditional priests.

Equality and Rationality: The ceremony includes the recitation of selected messages emphasizing universal virtues rather than religious dogma. Additionally, a set of twenty "messages of fundamental freedoms" (Vivaha Samhite) is read, emphasizing equality, rejection of caste distinctions, and gender parity.

Rejection of Dowry and Superstition: The practice strictly prohibits dowry and superstitious beliefs, advocating for marriages based on mutual respect and love.

Impact and Legacy

Since its inception, Mantra Mangalya has inspired numerous couples to adopt a more rational and egalitarian approach to marriage. It has been particularly influential among progressive circles in Karnataka, encouraging inter-caste and inter-religious unions and challenging traditional societal norms. Organizations like Manava Mantapa have been established to support such marriages, providing a platform for couples seeking to marry outside conventional frameworks.

In recent years, the principles of Mantra Mangalya have gained international recognition. For instance, a couple from England chose to solemnize their marriage under this concept, highlighting its universal appeal and relevance. ==

Marriage Code

It is an extra-ordinary set of statements meant to be administered to the bride and groom. Some excerpts:

   1.By marrying in this way you are freed from all mental and spiritual shackles and such other slavery.
   2.You are neither superior nor inferior to any caste or community on this earth.
   3.We have on this day liberated you from all artificial castes (distinctions)
   4.We have freed you from all narrow religious creeds and also from all ritualistic traditions, falsehood and from blind beliefs.
   5.You need not live as slaves or bonded labourers of household gods or gods of your community. The first and last god for human beings, are the human values of society.
   6.All human beings are equal. You have this day rejected all religions and traditions which say that man is superior to woman.
   7.Neither wife nor husband is subservient to the other. The wife is as independent and equal as the husband.
   8.Love alone is the means of making the husband and wife live together. For those who do not love each other the thali and going round the holy fire are a waste; marrying according to any tradition is also a waste.
   9. Reject all pontiffs, acharyas and gurus who tell lies in the name of god. Shun all temples and pilgrim places which loot money in the name of god”

Conclusion

Mantra Mangalya stands as a testament to Kuvempu's visionary ideals, promoting a marriage system rooted in simplicity, equality, and humanistic values. It continues to inspire individuals and communities to rethink traditional practices and embrace more inclusive and rational approaches to matrimonial ceremonies.

References

• • References**

- [Mantra Mangalya: A Rationalist Wedding Ceremony in Karnataka](https://indianculturalforum.in/2019/05/14/mantra-mangalya-a-rationalist-wedding-ceremony-in-karnataka/)

- [A wedding called Mantra Mangalya - Bangalore Mirror](https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/opinion/views/kuvempu/articleshow/46718979.cms)

- [Couple from England enter wedlock under 'Mantra Mangalya' concept](https://www.deccanherald.com/content/652275/couple-england-enter-wedlock-mantra.html)