Bridal Series Mangalsutra

Welcome to the second edition of the Bridal series which comes with a twist. Instead of generalizing the bridal jewellery of communities around the world, I will adopt a micro focus to a particular design, ornament or style that is distinctively bridal. I would like to begin the series with 2 of the most requested and searched for topics on my blog, the Mangalsutra & Thirumangalyam – the holy wedding chains of India.

Bridal Series Mangalsutra

Both Mangalsutra and Thirumangalyam, are symbols of Hindu marriage. Conceptually they are the same however they differ in design and name. While a Mangalsutra is worn in Central, West and Northern India, A Thirumangalyam or Thali is worn in the south. I gave a brief intro about them in my Indian Bridal series posts last year. In this post I’ll elaborate about the Mangalsutra.

A mangalsutra consists of a gold or diamond ornament strung from a thread, a string of black beads or a gold chain. It is the equivalent of the Western wedding ring and is worn by a married woman until her husband’s death. This is the only necklace that is not tried on by the bride before purchasing it.

Why wear a Mangalsutra

Mangalsutra is worn by a North, western or Cental Indian married woman. The pattern is usually chosen according to the customs of the groom’s family. Gujaratis and Marwaris often go for a diamond pendant on a double strand of black seed beads, interspersed with gold seed beads. Those who cannot afford diamonds go for Cubic Zirconia set in gold. Maharashtrians wear a pendant of one or two pendant (vatis). The ‘Koli’ ladies from fisherman’s community wear two mangalsutras , one in the name of their husband and the other of lord of sea. Konkanis & Goans wear three necklaces called as Muhurtamani (auspicious bead chain). Bengali, Assamese, Oriya, and some Punjabi communities don’t have the custom of Mangalsutra.

The two strands of black beads of mangalsutra symbolise Shiva and Shakti. The central gold cups that join the strands depict their Union. There are two variations in the strands – Shagun with 2 gold beads looped after every nine black beads and Nirgun where only black beads are used. These beads are said to ward off the evil eye and help the woman balance rajo-Teja energies. The simpler the mangalsutra, the more effective it is said to be in the conduction of positive (satvik) energy to the wearer.

Changing Mangalsutra Designs

However, changing with times I see women having multiple managalsutras. One is a simple traditional chain meant for everyday use. The other is set with diamonds and worn only during functions. Sometimes, they even have a third one with fancy designs which could be worn as a necklace as well. Fancy designs include unusual shapes, pearls, enamelling on gold and gold hangings and chains. Recently I even saw a jeweller sell matching earrings for mangalsutras.

This is not a sponsored post and the Images belong to PNG Gadgil Jewellers

PS: I do not make or sell Thali, Mangalsutra or kodi; The images shared are for illustrative purposes only. Please check your neighbourhood jewellery store to buy.

I hope you found it interesting

Cheers

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3 responses to “Bridal Series Mangalsutra”

gloria allen

08/10/2015

Thanks Divya for sharing. Great information. I didn't know these beautiful pieces Mangalsutra were the equivalant of wedding bands and worn everyday. love the post.

Divya N

08/10/2015

I am glad that you found it interesting, there is a south Indian version of the magalsutra too

Bridal Series – Thali Thirumangalyam | Jewels of sayuri

04/12/2016

[…] is the south Indian form of the Mangalsutra or the holy chain/cord. I regaled about the Managalsutra in my previous Bridal series post […]

Bridal Series Mangalsutra