Karnataka: A family from Puttur in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district has published a unique ad in a local paper, searching for an appropriate “spirit” groom for their deceased daughter, who passed away three decades ago, for the ceremonial tradition called ‘Kule Madime’ or ‘Pretha Maduve’.

‘Kule Madime’, a tradition observed in Tulunadu, encompassing the coastal regions of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, entails the union of spirits of those who have passed away.

Released a week prior, the advertisement outlines the family’s quest for a young man from the Kulal caste and Bangera lineage, who likewise departed three decades ago, to participate in the Pretha Maduve ritual.

“Seeking a boy for a girl from Kulal caste and Bangera (gotra). The child died about 30 years ago. In case there is a boy of the same caste and different Bari, who died 30 years ago and the family is willing to perform Pretha Maduve,” the advertisement concludes with contact information.

A relative of the deceased woman disclosed that since the ad appeared in the newspaper, approximately 50 individuals have come forward expressing their interest. Additionally, he mentioned that they would soon determine the date for conducting the ceremony.

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The family member also noted that they have been actively searching for a suitable match for the ritual over the past five years.

When placing the advertisement, we were concerned about potential trolling, but surprisingly, it has sparked a significant amount of awareness about the ritual. Interestingly, individuals from various castes have reached out, some even seeking further information about the tradition.

What is Kule Madime?

‘Kule Madime’ or ‘Pretha Maduve’ is a traditional custom observed in Karnataka with the belief that it bestows a sense of fulfillment or salvation upon departed souls who passed away without marriage. It is believed that by performing these rituals, any obstacles hindering prospective brides or grooms from finding suitable matches are eliminated.

This practice is part of ‘Pitr Aradhane’, or ancestor worship, as it is a ceremony conducted for the deceased. While the precise rituals may differ based on the caste, ‘Kule Madime’ is generally carried out in a manner similar to a wedding ceremony for living individuals.

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