The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c7.s2.30

c7.s2.30

In course of time as the hold of religion increased, Gāndharva ceased to be one of the ideal forms of marriage; it was included in the list of unapproved forms. But as long as post-puberty marriages were in vogue, Gāndharva marriages could not be altogether stopped. It was, however, laid down that even in Gāndharva marriages the ritual should be performed after the union³. The possible objection that the marriage Mantras refer to a *kanyā* or a virgin and so could not be recited in such a case was met by laying down that the term *kanyā* is to be understood in a general way as referring to a bride and not necessarily to a virgin¹. The subsequent formal celebration of the marriage served the purpose of its proper announcement to society; it also gave an opportunity to relations and friends to share its joy.