Jhumka makes a strong case for unity in diversity


jhumkas

One of my assignments, required me to study the jewellery culture of India. Needless to say that every region here has its own specialties. But it is noteworthy that jhumka is one such jewel that is beyond culture, era, region, religion and language. This bell-shaped ear ornament is believed to have originated in the temples of South India, Bengal, Orissa and Central India centuries ago but with the passage of time, has made a special place in every culture.

Today, if you walk into a north Indian wedding, from the bride to the family members and the guests, you will notice most of them flaunting this gorgeous pair. From hoop-jhumkas and multi-step designs to oversize ones, there is a spectacle of jhumkas to feast your eyes on. When you travel to the land of sand dunes, Rajasthan, you’ll be even more fascinated by the kaanphool version of this pair which is essentially ear-crawlers with jhumka bells. Maharashtra’s bridal earrings too goes by the same name and even looks almost the same.

In Gujarat, the jhumka pair is crafted in silver and is a common sight during the nine days of Navratri, whereas Kerala – a hotbed of traditional gold jewellery, boasts of a stunning pair that is called jhimkis. Don’t underestimate our rich and varied north-eastern regions. The fashion-forward women living here too are not spared by the charm of jhumkas. Putting their own cultural spin on this temple jewellery, they have carved their own set of enchanting jhumkas.

Besides, jhumkas have also stood the test of time and continue to rule the roost as traditional earrings. Chandbalis, hoops and fancy danglers trend on and off but jhumkas are evergreen. Every generation appreciates the transformative effect it has on the wearer's look. While women of ancient times fell for its cultural relevance, its classic charm work its magic on women of today. Whether it is made of gold, silver or any alloy, a jhumka is a jhumka is a jhumka, no matter what and it is loved as passionately as it deserves to. No wonder, its popularity is only on the rise since centuries ago. 

Author: Deepa Mishra
Disclaimer: All images used in the blog have been sourced from Google purely for the purpose of informative reference. The models, celebrities or products showcased in these pictures are not to promote any brand in any manner.      



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