Centuries ago, a Kodava bridegroom had to walk long distances from his okka (patrilineal clan home) through dense forests, to the house of his bride and back. The trip was fraught with danger. Being attacked by wildlife and rivals was common. The bridegroom as well as the males in his party had to be well equipped to deal with this. Consequently, weaponry formed a critical part of the bridegroom’s attire. The present day attire of a Kodava bridegroom reflects this aspect of the martial tradition of the Kodavas. Knives and a pointed staff were and still are an intrinsic part

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