In Tamil culture, Porutham (பொருத்தம்) refers to the compatibility between a bride and groom, traditionally assessed through astrology. Rooted in Vedic practices and the ancient science of Jyotish Shastra, porutham is an essential step in arranged marriages, ensuring not only emotional harmony but also spiritual and familial well-being.There are 10 main poruthams (also called Dashama Poruthams) examined before a marriage is fixed. These include Dina Porutham (for health and prosperity), Gana Porutham (for temperament compatibility), Mahendra Porutham (for progeny), Rajju Porutham (for longevity of the husband), and Nadi Porutham (related to genetics and health). Each porutham addresses a different aspect of married life, from physical and mental compatibility to wealth, love, and future children.Out of the ten, at least seven poruthams must match for the marriage to be considered astrologically favorable. Some astrologers give extra importance to Rajju, Nadi, and Gana Porutham, considering them more critical than others. For instance, a mismatch in Nadi Porutham is often seen as a dealbreaker due to its link with health and childbirth.The horoscopes (jathagams) of the boy and girl are compared based on the nakshatras (birth stars) and rasi (zodiac signs) to determine these poruthams. A good match is believed to result in a blissful, balanced, and successful marriage. On the other hand, a mismatch may lead to misunderstandings, health issues, or difficulties in family life.In today’s modern world, while many couples choose partners based on personal compatibility and shared values, porutham matching remains a respected practice—especially among families who value cultural tradition and astrological guidance. Some families consult astrologers even in love marriages to validate and bless the union with favorable cosmic alignment.In conclusion, porutham is more than a ritual—it's a symbolic bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary values. It reflects the Tamil belief that a marriage is not just the union of two individuals but also the alignment of their stars, destinies, and families. Whether tamil calendar today follow tradition strictly or blend it with modern thought, porutham remains an insightful tool in shaping a lifelong partnership.