Inter-Caste Arranged Marriages in India: A Unique Perspective
India, with its diverse cultural and social fabric, has seen an interesting phenomenon in recent years: inter-caste arranged marriages. While inter-caste love marriages have been celebrated for centuries, the true test of erosion in caste identities lies in inter-caste arranged marriages. These marriages, once rare, have become more common, reflecting a gradual shift in societal norms.
I come from the Kongu Vellalar Gounder community. My relative, a 40-something uncle, was facing the challenge of finding a bride from our caste when his parents approached a broker. They expressed no objection to a lower-caste bride, and they eventually married a 20-year-old SC (Scheduled Caste) girl. This union is a testament to the changing dynamics in Indian society.
Unique Religious Cult: Meivazhi Sabha
The practice of inter-caste arranged marriages is not exclusive to the upper-caste communities. In the village of Meivazhi Salai, located in the Pudukottai District of Tamil Nadu, a unique religious cult called Meivazhi Sabha has been instrumental in promoting unity and breaking down caste barriers.
Introduction to Meivazhi Cult
The Meivazhi cult was founded by Lord Salai Andavargal, who was born as Khadar Basha Rowther, a Muslim. Later named Marka Nathar by his guru, he is affectionately referred to as Salai Andavargal by his followers. The key belief in this cult is that all religions serve the ultimate goal of conquering death with God's help and leading one back to Him, irrespective of caste or religion.
Salai Andavargal officially established the Meivazhi Sabha in 1933, uniting people of all religions, castes, and even atheists under one brotherhood. This ideal was met with resistance from various religious groups but eventually succeeded in bringing like-minded individuals together. My parents faced some challenges from the local community but were allowed to pursue their beliefs without being converted.
The Meivazhi Sabha is currently headquartered in Meivazhi Salai, a pilgrimage center for thousands of peoples from diverse backgrounds. The culture and beliefs of the Meivazhi cult are detailed on the official Wikipedia page, although some of the information may be exaggerated.
Inter-Caste Marriages in Meivazhi Cult
I belong to the Yadav caste. My elder brother married a girl from the Naidu community, and my younger sister married a Saiva Vellalar boy. While these marriages may not be considered love marriages, they are the result of arranged marriages by our parents.
Similar inter-caste and inter-religious marriages are increasingly common in the Meivazhi community. Marriages between upper, middle, and lower castes are frequent, and while some individuals still follow traditional practices, the younger generation is increasingly breaking barriers.
The Current Scenario in Arranged Marriages
Matrimonial advertisements often mention 'Caste no bar' and inter-caste marriages are indeed happening. Many people have experienced or participated in such unions, but often keep it quiet. Speaking up about such experiences could help those in dilemmas find confidence.
I am a writer on Quora and have just committed to getting an inter-caste arranged marriage myself. I will update this post with the outcome.
Note
Please forgive any imperfections in my writing as this is my first attempt at addressing such a sensitive issue.
[M.d. Swetha Dasarathan] is my sister.