Tamil Muslim Matrimony

There is no doubt that the Tamil Muslim community in India forms a distinct cultural and linguistic group within the larger Muslim community and has a unique set of customs and traditions. Historically known as the Sonakar, Tamil Muslims today include many sub-castes such as the Rowther, Labbai, Lebbai, Marakkayar, and Rawther. They are typically based out of Tamil Nadu, are fluent in Tamil and its regional dialects, and are matrilineal in nature.

As is customary in Islam, Tamil Muslim matrimony is guided by a set of ethics and codes where Nikah is organised only after the agreement between the families of the bride and groom. Each family as well as the individual's education, and profession are also taken into consideration when selecting a partner.

The traditional method of finding a partner is through family and community networks. The family of the groom initiates the marriage proposal, and the bride's family considers the proposal and responds accordingly. Since the same linguistic background is given a preference, Tamil Muslim matrimony usually involves the bride and groom from the same community.