Your bangles say a lot about you!

Bangles have been an integral part of Indian culture since time unknown. Even the oldest civilisation that we are aware of had the existence of bangles. A copper figurine was discovered from the site of the Mohenjo Daro settlements, that dates 5000 years ago in 2600 BC, with a necklace and a set of bangles. During the excavation of some other historical sites across different regions of India, bangles were discovered. From copper, bronze, shell and terra cotta to silver, gold, lac and glass, they were made of different materials. For instance, the copper bangles were excavated from Mahurjhari, the ornate ones from Mauryan Empire and the gold bangles from Taxila.

But still you never know, it may have existed even before that. All Hindu deities are seen wearing bangles and that this jewel has traditional significances too. Wearing bangles, especially lac, glass and shell are a must for married women here. While it is believed to ensure husband's safety and bring him good luck, it also signifies strength and ability - the virtues that are vital for a bride. 

Although its cultural relevance is common, the design and makes across different regions vary and how! Up north, in Punjab, brides-to-be wear ivory and red bangles called Chooda, which is gifted by her maternal uncle. She is supposed to wear these bangles for a minimum of 40 days or longer depending on the individual family’s custom. Rajasthani and Gujarati brides too were the similar Chooda. In Gujarat, the bride’s maternal uncle gives her the Chooda in a ceremony called Mameru, along with a bridal silk saree with the red border.

But as you travel south, the bridal Chooda becomes significantly different in Maharashtra. The brides here wear green glass bangles in odd numbers, as green signifies creativity, new life and fertility. Along with these, they wear solid gold bangles called Patlya and carved Kadas called Tode that are usually gifted by the groom's family. Even in southern states, although gold is considered extremely auspicious, in some cultures the brides wear green glass bangles along with the gold ones.

Going east, in Bihar, lac bangles are a must to wear for the bride. Considered as a sign of good omen, these bangles are worn by married women on all auspicious occasions. In the neighbouring state West Bengal, a new bride wears a conch shell bangle and a red coral bangle, which are called Shakha and Pola in local parlance. Besides this, the mother-in-law also gifts her a gold plated iron bangle on entering the new household.

Don’t these bangles say a lot about you? Your roots in the world’s most ancient civilisation, the region you come from, your marital status and yes of course, your taste and style too. Now, you can't agree with me more that bangles are the best way to make a statement. 

Author: Deepa Mishra

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