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The Symbolism Behind Wedding Bangles Across Indian Regional Cultures
Date 29 May 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins
Bangles – those seemingly simple yet elegant ornaments adorning the wrists of Indian women. But for brides across the diverse regions of India, these circular wrist ornaments hold a world of meaning that goes far beyond mere aesthetics.
From the mesmerising sound of glass bangles tinkling together to the bold statement of gold and jadau bracelets, the bangles chosen by a bride are deeply symbolic of new beginnings, cultural identity, and the blessings of marital life.
In this article, we delve into the significance of bangles and uncover the myriad traditions and religious significance of bangles in Indian weddings.
The Symbolism of Bangles Across Different Indian Cultures
The tradition of adorning the bride's hands with bangles is an integral part of Indian weddings, but the specifics vary widely across different regions and communities. Let's take a look at some of these fascinating variations.
Bangles Significance in North Indian Weddings
In North Indian weddings, especially in Punjab, the chooda ceremony is an important pre-wedding ritual. The bride's maternal uncle and aunt gift her a set of red and white ivory bangles called chooda, which she wears for a period ranging from a few days to a year after the wedding.
The chooda bangles are not just a symbol of the bride's new status, but are also believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the newlyweds. Traditionally, the bride also wears gold kangans, along with the chooda, which are gifted by her parents and symbolise their blessings.
Bangles Significance in South Indian Weddings
Down South, the bangle traditions take on a different hue, quite literally! In Tamil Nadu, green glass bangles are a must-have for new brides, as the colour is associated with fertility, prosperity and new beginnings. The bride's parents gift her the green bangles, which she wears along with her gold wedding bangles.
In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the bride wears a combination of gold and glass bangles, with the number of bangles being an odd number for good luck. The bangles are usually red, green, and yellow, each colour holding a special significance – red for passion and love, green for prosperity, and yellow for wisdom.
Bangles Significance in East Indian Weddings
In Bengali weddings, the bride traditionally wears a pair of white conch shell bangles called 'shakha' and red coral bangles called 'pola', together referred to as 'shakha pola'. These bangles hold deep religious significance for Bengali women and are a symbol of a married woman's status.
The shakha and pola bangles are worn by the bride during the wedding rituals and are gifted to her by her parents. They are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the couple's married life.
Bangles Significance in West Indian Weddings
In Gujarati and Rajasthani communities, the bangles worn by the bride are called 'chooda' (not to be confused with the Punjabi chooda), and are usually red and green in colour. The chooda set can include anywhere from 16 to 21 bangles, which are worn by the bride on each hand.
An important Gujarati pre-wedding ceremony is 'mehendi', where the bride's hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs. The chooda bangles are slipped on by her maternal uncle after the mehendi ceremony, marking the beginning of the wedding festivities.
How Bridal Saree and Lehenga Complement the Bangles
While bangles are a statement accessory on their own, they truly shine when paired with the perfect bridal saree or bridal lehenga. The colours, patterns, and styles of the bangles can be chosen to complement or contrast with the bride's ensemble for a stunning effect.
Bridal Saree and Bangles: A Perfect Match
The saree, an eternal favourite for Indian brides, provides a perfect canvas for showcasing beautiful bangles. When choosing bangles to go with your bridal saree, consider the following:
- Colour: Match the bangles to the dominant colour of your saree for a cohesive look. For example, pair a classic red saree with a set of red and gold bangles.
- Material: The material of the bangles can add a different dimension to your saree look. Glass bangles lend a classic touch, while polki or jadau bangles add a regal vibe.
- Style: Experiment with different bangle styles, such as broad cuffs, delicate thin bangles, or intricately designed pieces to make your bridal look uniquely you.
Bridal Lehenga and Bangles: A Symbolic Union
Another wedding outfit favourite, the bridal lehenga is often paired with a mix of bangles for a standout look. When accessorising your lehenga with bangles, keep these points in mind:
- Colour Contrast: Create a beautiful contrast by pairing a light-coloured lehenga with darker hued bangles, or vice versa. Think emerald green bangles with a blush pink lehenga.
- Embellishments: If your lehenga is heavily embellished, opt for simpler bangles to balance the look. On the other hand, plain lehengas can be elevated with intricately designed bangles.
- Occasion: Consider the occasion and time of day when choosing your bangles. Daytime weddings call for lighter, more subtle designs, while evening functions are perfect for bringing out those statement pieces.
The Role of Bangles in Wedding Outfits Across India
Bangles, while deeply symbolic, also serve an important aesthetic purpose in Indian wedding outfits. They add a touch of grace, femininity, and elegance to any bridal look, and are often the finishing touch that ties the whole ensemble together.
Across the different regions of India, bangles are incorporated into wedding outfits in unique ways:
- In North Indian weddings, the chooda bangles are often colour-coordinated with the bride's lehenga or saree, adding a pop of colour to the hands.
- South Indian brides often pair their silk sarees with a mix of gold and glass bangles, creating a rich and traditional look.
- Bengali brides wear their shakha pola bangles with the quintessential red sarees, symbolising the perfect union of tradition and beauty.
- Gujarati and Marwari brides pair their colourful lehengas with equally vibrant red and green chooda bangles, making for a stunning visual statement.
No matter the region or style, bangles are an integral part of Indian bridal fashion and are deeply intertwined with the cultural significance of weddings.
The Enduring Significance of Bangles in Indian Weddings
From the tinkling sounds of glass to the glint of gold, bangles are more than just accessories for Indian brides – they are a symbol of the rich cultural heritage that makes Indian weddings so special.
Whether you're a bride looking for the perfect bangles for wedding ceremonies or simply interested in the religious significance of bangles, understanding the role of bangles in Indian weddings is a fascinating journey.
As you embark on your own wedding journey, consider incorporating some of these regional bangle traditions into your bridal look to add a touch of symbolism and cultural significance. And for all your bridal fashion needs, from stunning sarees to regal lehengas and everything in between, Mohey has you covered.
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