Mangalsutra and the significance it holds in Indian culture

There are many Indian jewelry items that are a part of daily wear for women in the country. Of the many items that are used on a regular basis, the most important is the mangalsutra, which is an ornament exclusively designed for use by married women who practice Hinduism. According to the Hindus, this is an ornament that represents the holy bond of matrimony. The Mangalsutra is as significant to the Hindus as the wedding band is to the Christians. It symbolizes the union of two people in a relationship based on trust, respect and faith.

The mangalsutra, as per the Hindus, is a chain that represents the inseparable bond between the wife and her husband. This is a sacred thread that the husband ties around the neck of his wife during marriage with the promise of taking her to be his true soul mate and protecting her for life. The married woman continues to wear this all through her lifetime until the demise of her husband. This sacred chain is also considered to enhance the well being of the husband and his family.

There are various types of mangalsutra that are used today. The shape and design is decided upon by the groom’s family based on their customs and practices. The ‘Lakshmi thaali’ is the most common and is worn by most Hindu women. Married women in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka wear the ‘Pottu/Ramar thaali’, while the married women in Kerala wear the ‘Ela thaali’. Marwari women and women in Gujarat use diamond pendants and unlike in the southern part of India, these women do not use a gold chain, but a string or two of black beads along with the pendant.

Though the practice of wearing this item of jewelry was restricted only to practicing Hindus in the past, today women from western countries who opt for traditional Indian weddings prefer to wear the mangalsutra.