In Indian culture, can you guess one traditional gold jewellery you will find in every married woman’s jewellery box? Yes, you guessed it right! It is the gold mangalsutra that holds a special place in Indian culture, and it is considered more than just a piece of jewellery.
After marriage, every Hindu woman wears a gold mangalsutra as a symbol of being married. The groom ties it around the bride’s neck during the wedding ceremonies. It is a gift from the groom’s family to the bride, and he puts this around her neck as the promise of their eternal bond for life.
Let us explore the cultural significance of this traditional gold jewellery and its relevance to Indian society.
Cultural Significance Of Gold Mangalsutra In Indian Society
1. Sacred Union
The word “mangalsutra” is the combination of two Sanskrit words, “mangala,” meaning auspicious, and “sutra,” which means thread. It is an auspicious thread that signifies the sacred union of husband and wife. Every woman in Indian culture wears this after marriage until her husband is alive as a symbol of their marital bond and their lifetime commitment of love and faith for each other.
2. Symbol Of Protection
One interesting fact about every mangalsutra is that they all have gold and black beads woven into a gold chain or thread. In north India, it is compulsory to have black beads in the mangalsutra. It is so, as people believe that black beads woven with gold absorb positive energy and keep the couple safe from negative energies. The thread protects the couple and their relationship from the evil eye.
3. Expression Of Love And Devotion
When a husband ties this sacred thread around the neck of the bride, he declares his love, devotion, and acceptance of responsibility in front of the entire world. A woman wears the gold mangalsutra as a continuous reminder of the vows they have made to each other during the wedding ceremony. They wear it daily to showcase their love and devotion towards the marriage. The thread is so powerful that it reflects positive energy that strengthens the deep emotional connection between the couples.
4. Cultural Diversity
The basic concept of the mangalsutra remains the same, but the design varies across the different regions of India. For example, look at the intricate Maharashtrian jewellery designs. They are all unique and symbolise their cultural significance. The same appears in their mangalsutra design gold. Based on the tradition of Maharashtrian jewellery designs, the unique watimani mangalsutra features a two-bowl-shaped pendant linked to a gold chain with black and gold beads. But, when we look at the South Indian Thaali, the design is completely changed, carrying their cultural significance. These variations in the mangalsutra designs celebrate the unity of diversity in India.
5. Modern Adaptions
As time changes, traditional gold jewellery designs are slightly modified with a modern touch to satisfy the requirements of fashionistas. Many working women prefer sleek and minimalist mangalsutra designs these days. To fulfil their requirements, you can find various modern designs on the market that seamlessly blend with everyday fashion.
