Customs Associated With The Arranged Marriage Of Kharams And Rongmeis

Abstract

The institution of marriage is universal, and it provides an opportunity to unite a man and a woman to set up a family and to continue the human society. Marriage is an important social event in the lifecycle of an individual. The paper is a humble attempt to examine the customs associated with the arranged marriage of the natives of Manipur with special reference to Kharams and Rongmeis. It deals with the rites and rituals, procedures in negotiation, the role of elders of the village council and other institutions, the importance of bride price, the season of marriage etc. They follow clan exogamy. Both the Kharams and Rongmeis prefered arranged marriage as it gives unity and stability not only the two the persons but also the two families. Usually, the arranged marriage has a long process and it takes time to complete it. Because of its importance, it is necessary to examine and preserve the marriage customs of the Kharam and Rongmei people of Manipur.