The pelli or wedding is considered the strongest of social bonds, and is said to spiritually merge two souls opening the doors to gruhastaashramam (household life).
Symbolic gestures and rituals surround the ceremony and ensure that the bride and groom are united in the presence of panchabhutaalu —five essential elements for life, namely: bhumi (earth), akaasham (sky), agni (fire), neeru (water) and vaayuvu (air).
The Nādasvaram (also called the Shehnai in North India) is an Indian musical instrument that traditionally accompanies most Telugu weddings.
[2] Some marriage ceremonies are held in a temple in the presence of god, but most are conducted outside because of the number of people in attendance.
The rich and varied cultural heritage of Telugu speaking people is reflected in the ceremonies conducted there.