The significance of bangles in Indian culture
One of the most iconic images associated with India, is that of a woman with a striking red bindi, dupatta drawn over her head and hands full of bangles joined together in a respectful welcoming gesture. Westerners travelling through India are usually fascinated by traditional Indian clothing and jewellery. On the other hand, Indian women, having lived amidst this culture all their lives are oblivious to how beautiful & significant Indian jewellery really is. In this post we take a closer look at bangles and what they mean in our culture.
Ancient symbols of civilization
When archaeologists discovered the Indus valley civilizations, of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, they found beautiful artefacts, sculptures and jewellery. Well-preserved & intricately crafted bangles were among of the most precious items found. In those days they were made with gold, silver, copper, ivory and precious stones, just like they are today. This jewellery reveals how evolved Indian art and craft was even as early as 1500 B.C.
Bangles as used in Indian rituals.
Indian parents usually invest in tiny gold bangles for their baby boys and girls. It’s one of the first pieces of jewellery worn by children. As they grow older, girls continue wearing bangles. However, it is only when a girl becomes a bride that bangles become attached to her identity. Customs across Indian may vary, but in almost all regions changing of bangles is an important part of the wedding ritual.
In some regions, like Bengal, Gujarat & Rajasthan the bride is usually gifted a new set on her wedding day, by her mother-in-law. In other regions like Punjab, a bride must wear ivory bangles or chudas, along with red bangles for a given period of time post her nuptials.
In southern states, a women wears green bangles post her marriage as a symbol of fertility and prosperity. South Indians also use bangles in a ritual associated with pregnancy; a women’s wrists are adorned with lots of colourful bangles before she leaves for her mother’s home, where the baby is delivered.
If by some misfortune a woman loses her husband, she is expected to break her bangles and stop wearing them. This practise may not be relevant today, but it demonstrates how marital status and bangles are related. These are just a few examples of the cultural significance of bangles.
Urban women may not wear precious or colourful bangles on a daily basis. However, when it comes to traditional or religious functions almost all turn back to these cultural practices. We at KaratCraft.inhave some exquisitely crafted traditional bangles, made with either 18KT or 22KT gold. Our varied designs are made by different artisans and are a true reflection of India’s vibrant culture.
