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Kindi
Wedding · Ritual Vessels / Wedding Ceremony Objects

Kindi - ಕಿಂಡಿ

Traditional Milk Sipper
Also written: ಕಿಂಡಿ
Virtual Museum of
Kodava Heritage

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About the Object

Kindi is a small metal vessel with a narrow spout, traditionally used during the Mangala wedding ceremony to hold milk.

The Kindi is a small metal vessel with a narrow spout that has an important role in the traditional Kodava wedding ceremony. During Mangala, milk is poured into the Kindi and it is placed on a thaliyathakki bolcha, which is positioned on each of two mukkalis placed in front of the bride and groom. During the ceremony, elders bless the bride or groom and have them sip a drop of milk from the Kindi

How It Was Used

Cultural significance: The Kindi carries an important message of gratitude and remembrance. As elders bless the bride or groom and have them sip the milk, the ritual reminds them that while entering a new relationship and finding a spouse, they should not forget the person who fed and nurtured them earlier.

Historical context: The Kindi forms part of the traditional Kodava Mangala wedding ritual, reflecting the importance given to blessings from elders and remembrance of one's parents and those who nurtured the couple. The practice is documented as part of the established Kodava wedding customs

Material & Making
BrassSilverGold

Traditionally, the vessel would be shaped from metal into a small rounded container with a narrow, projecting spout, allowing liquid to be poured or sipped in a controlled manner. The metal would be formed, joined and finished by traditional metalworking techniques

Who Used It? / Where? / When?
OwnershipNot yet recorded
Period Ancient
Status of traditionStill used ceremonially
Sources
Source not recorded
Kodagu Heritage / KodavaClan — Virtual Modha Goode, with the specific Kindi documentation describing its form, use and relevance during the Kodava wedding ceremony
Reference link