The first step to be taken in connection with marriage is examination of the horoscopes of the boy and girl, in order to ascertain whether their union will be one of happiness or the reverse. While this is being done by the Panikkar (Malabar astrologer), the following persons should be present :—
- (a) On the part of the bridegroom —
- 1. Tandān, or chief of the tara.
- 2. Father, or other elder in the family.
- 3. Uncle, i.e., the mother's brother. In Malabar the word uncle means maternal uncle.
- 4. Sisters' husbands.
- 5. Four or more friends or companions.
- 6. Any number of relations and friends.
- (b) On the part of the bride —
- 1 . Tandān of her tara.
- 2. Father, or other guardian.
- 3. Uncle.
- 4. Four or more friends.
- 5. The astrologer of her tara.
- 6. Friends and relations.
The ceremony must be performed at the house of the girl's family. Her father's consent is necessary, but his presence is not essential at this or the two subsequent ceremonies in connection with the marriage. The Tandān, it may be noted, is the caste governmental head in all matters affecting his own caste and the artisans. He is a Tiyan, and his office, which is authorised by the local Rājah, or rather by his senior Rāni, is hereditary. In exceptional cases, however, the hereditary right may be interrupted by the Rāni appointing some one else. The Tandān of the tara is required to assist at every ceremony connected with marriage, at the ceremony when a girl attains puberty, at that of tying the tāli, and
