Storia do Mogor 281.21.7

281.21.7

The catechist returned then to the altar, drew from his waistbelt a vessel holding some cow-dung, which the Hindus call Tiranourou (tirunīru) — that is, 'holy ashes.' This had been blessed and sanctified by the reverend Jesuit fathers. Three times he scattered it on the heads of the newly-married couple, who all this time had remained seated. In this posture they placed their half-opened fists on their knees. Then the catechist ordered a fresh bowl of peas to be brought, took some up in both hands, and showered them three times over the two feet, the two fists, and the heads of the couple. The relations on both sides did the same. Some necklaces of flowers were now produced and placed on the necks of the two, changing them three times. The parents and the principal guests went through the same ceremonies. All this gone through, the catechist called for a third coconut and another bowl of peas; from the latter he took a small quantity in both hands, and placed both in the hands of the bride. She placed them in the same way in the bridegroom's hands, who returned them. In this fashion they gave and returned them as many as three times. Lastly, after the third time, the catechist poured some water into the hands of the bridegroom, over the rice and the coco-nut.