The Groom's family is invited to the decoratated kalyana mantapa while chanting holy mantras.
The bride is escorted to the mantapa by her Maternal Uncle along with her family.
An 'Antarapata' (a cloth separating the bride and groom) is held by the elders of the families & the priest.
There will be chanting holy hymns in a high tone and all the Devatas are invited to bless the couple at the Muhurtha. A systematic protocol is maintained while inviting the devatas. A great sanctity and positive energy is created to bless the bride and the groom.
At the exact time of the auspicious muhurtha antarapata is pulled down for the bride and the groom to touch the Sahasrara Chakra (center of the head) of each other with Jeerige-Bella(Cumin seeds and jaggery) in their hands. It is believed that in this process the souls inter-connect.
This is an important ritual which is highlighted by the tunes of nadaswara. At this point all the elders and well-wishers shower blessings with Akshate (coloured raw rice).