Chennai, November 14, 2026: Popular music composer Anirudh Ravichander and businesswoman Kavya Maran tied the knot in Greece on November 11, 2026, choosing a self-respect marriage ceremony instead of conventional religious rituals.
## Anirudh and Kavya's Unique Wedding Ceremony
The couple exchanged garlands and chains in the presence of family members and friends. Superstar Rajinikanth and former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin attended the celebrations. DMK leader T R B Rajaa confirmed that the wedding followed the self-respect marriage tradition.
“**## What Is a Self-Respect Marriage?**”
Self-respect marriage, known as Suyamariyathai Thirumanam, originated from the Self-Respect Movement founded by social reformer Periyar E V Ramasamy. The practice challenges caste discrimination, social inequality and the requirement for priest-led wedding ceremonies. Couples can solemnise their union through mutual declarations, exchanging garlands or rings, or other recognised forms, without elaborate religious rituals.
## Is Self-Respect Marriage Legally Valid?
Tamil Nadu legally recognised self-respect marriages in 1967 through Section 7-A of the Hindu Marriage Act. However, marriages performed abroad can involve additional legal recognition and registration considerations. The couple's decision has sparked renewed interest in the social reform movement and its emphasis on dignity, individual choice and equality in marriage.
