Useful Info
The jewelry industry has long passed the ancient traditions that surrounded these types of bracelets called bangles.
In recent years designer bangles have become a “must-have” accessory for any girl or woman. Bangles, over time have become much trendier to suit a more contemporary look. Nowadays they come in a plethora of colors, designs and materials.
Bangles have always been an inseparable part of the Indian culture. Let us take a look at what makes this type of jewelry such a special part of the South Asia culture, especially for weddings.
What significance do bangles hold in Indian culture?
The word bangle derived from the Hindi word bangri or bangali, witch in Sanskrit means the ornament which adorns the arm. They are traditionally a part of the solah shringar of Indian brides. They signify good fortune and prosperity.
On the weeding day the bride must have on her arm different types of bangles. It’s a superstition that the gold bangles should not be worn alone by married women. They have to be teamed with glass bangles because they symbolizes the well-being of the husband and sons.
Not only is the material from which the jewelries are made important but also the color. Red signifies energy and prosperity, while green denotes good luck and fertility. Yellow bangles are meant for happiness, white is for new beginnings and orange is for success.
Every region has a separate set of rituals that are associated with this type of accessory. For example in Bengal the new bride wears a conch shell and a red coral bangle. Also the bride will receive a gold plated steel one from her mother-in-law.
Bangles are more than accessories for Indian women. They are a part of their culture, history and identity.
Now, we wear bangles on a daily basis because there are so many designs fit for both casual and elegant outfits. A simple bangle made of precious metal might also be a great present that could be left from generation to generation. They never go out of style, especially if the design is not very complicated. Simple goes a long way, and that’s a rule we all should obey.