A self-respect marriage, also known as Suyamariyathai Thirumanam, has its roots in the Self-Respect Movement founded by social reformer Periyar EV Ramasamy in Tamil Nadu. The movement challenged caste discrimination, social hierarchies and patriarchal customs, while advocating equality and individual dignity.
Unlike conventional Hindu wedding ceremonies, a self-respect marriage does not require a priest or elaborate religious rituals. Instead, the couple declares their commitment to each other in the presence of relatives, friends or other witnesses. They may exchange garlands, rings or other symbols of marriage. The emphasis is on the consent and equality of the two individuals rather than religious customs.
The practice received legal recognition in Tamil Nadu in 1967 through an amendment to the Hindu Marriage Act. Section 7-A recognises marriages solemnised through an exchange of garlands or rings, or a declaration of marriage, in the presence of relatives, friends or other witnesses.
Anirudh and Kavya’s wedding in Greece
Anirudh and Kavya’s wedding took place in Greece on November 11, following engagement celebrations on November 10. The ceremony was attended by prominent personalities, including Rajinikanth, his family members, MK Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Anirudh shared the first official photograph with his wife on Instagram with the caption, “My once in a lifetime, for a lifetime. 11.11”.
The couple has largely kept their relationship away from the public eye. Dating rumours gathered momentum in 2025 after a video of the two walking together in New York surfaced online. Anirudh had dismissed marriage speculation at the time with a light-hearted post on X.
