What is swayamvar?

Answer 1

Swayamvar is an ancient Indian practice in which a bride chooses her groom from a group of suitors who have assembled for the occasion, often showcasing their skills and valor. Traditionally, this ceremony was conducted by royal families, allowing the bride to assert her agency in selecting a partner based on her preferences. The practice is often depicted in ancient texts and epics, such as the Mahabharata, where notable figures like Draupadi chose their husbands in this manner. Swayamvar symbolizes the blend of social, cultural, and familial dynamics in marriage arrangements in historical Indian society.