In South Asian weddings, the jewelry a bride wears is not only a means to accessorize, but symbolic. Regardless of religious designation, South Asian brides are notorious for adorning themselves in show-stopping jewels from head to toe (literally). Toe rings, headpieces, necklaces, nose rings and bangles are all used as symbols of marriage in Desi weddings. The intricacies and beading used to create the jewelry are divine.
To better understand such rich bridal culture, we have collected our favorite in-vogue wedding day looks.
Maang Tikka is a piece of jewelry laid on the bride’s forehead meant to ward off the evil eye and provide good energy. There are several types of tikkas depending on culture, religion and personal style. They range from small solo pieces draped on the middle of the forehead to extravagant, oversized pieces called Jhoomar which hang on the side of the bride’s head
Bangles worn by South Asian brides on their wedding day are typically gifts from her family. Depending on the culture or region, the bangles are made of different colors, metals and hold different meanings such as fertility and prosperity.
Nose rings are attached to a chain, dangled and tied to the earrings worn by Hindu brides and used to symbolize the wealth and status of the family. Colors and beading can be used for variation.
Mangala sutra is a necklace worn by Hindu brides and is the main ritual of the marriage ceremony. The literal meaning is “holy thread” and is knotted around the bride’s neck three times by the groom making the marriage official by law. The thread is prepared with turmeric and has different colored beading depending on regional designation.
Each piece of jewelry worn by the bride on her wedding day symbolizes part of becoming a wife. The bridal accessories tell a story and play a big role in becoming husband and wife. So the next time you attend a South Asian wedding, just remember, without the bride’s jewels, the wedding just wouldn’t be complete. And if you are a South Asian bride, pile on the jewels and strap on the prettiest tikka- your wedding day depends on it!
CREDITS
Written by Mia Khalil