Unique marriage custom of Kinnar community: One night marriage and next day widowhood, story is linked to Mahabharata

Relationship of Kinnar’s one day marriage with Mahabharata: The traditions of Indian society are as diverse as they are mysterious. There are some customs prevalent in the eunuch society, which may be shocking for the common people. One of these is getting married for one night and mourning like a widow the next day. This tradition is not only considered social but also deeply linked to a mythological story of the Mahabharata period. Behind this custom lies a passionate story of faith, sacrifice and compassion.

Iravan coming forward for sacrifice

According to belief, before the Mahabharata war, Pandavas had worshiped Mother Kali with the wish of victory. To complete this puja, the sacrifice of a prince was considered necessary. Then Arjun’s son Iravan expressed his desire to sacrifice himself. However, he placed a condition that they should be married before the sacrifice. This is where a big dilemma arose before the Pandavas. The question was which princess would marry for one day and become a widow the very next day.

Shri Krishna took the form of Mohini

Shri Krishna found a solution to this difficult situation. To fulfill Iravan’s last wish, Shri Krishna took the form of Mohini and married Iravan. Iravan was sacrificed the next day after the marriage. After this, Shri Krishna himself became a widow and mourned. This incident later became the basis of the faith and tradition of the Kinnar community.

Iravan became the idol of eunuch community

After this mythological incident, the Kinnar community accepted Iravan as their family deity. It is believed that the eunuchs follow the same tradition by marrying Iravan for one night and mourn like a widow the next day. This ritual is considered a symbol of sacrifice and devotion.

A unique marriage is seen in Koovagam, Tamil Nadu

Every year a grand event is organized in Koovagam, Tamil Nadu to see this unique marriage of eunuchs. The festival begins on the first full moon of the Tamil New Year and continues for 18 days. On the 17th day the eunuchs dress up like brides and the marriage takes place. The priests of the Kinnar community make them wear Mangalsutra. The next day, the idol of Iravan Dev is broken after touring the city. Along with this, eunuchs leave their make-up and mourn like widows.