Gold Mangalsutra is the imperative jewellery for every Hindu bride as it symbolises love and respect in a marriage. By breaking down the term Mangalsutra, one can understand, mangal means sacred and sutra means thread, summing up to be a pious chord.
Made up of black and golden beads, this ornament fends off every evil spirit to lead a happy married life. However, the journey of Mangalsutra is not so native, read further to unlock all nitty-gritty about this sacred jewellery.
History and Origin
The origin of gold mangalsutra goes back to the 6th century when a bride used to wear a single yellow thread during her marriage to turn the evil eye from the couple. However, back then women tied around the thread on their wrist instead of her neck.
Starting its journey from South India, it has now become a homogenous sign of each married Indian woman.
Significance
Bestowing upon a divine aura (tej), lots of faith and well-being is put on the black beads of a mangalsutra. The right segment of this ornament radiates Gyan-shakti (power of knowledge) whereas the left part exudes Ichha-Shakti (power of determination). Lastly, the junction where both these sides confluence, signifies Kriya Shakti (power of action).
Combining these 3 major powers, a woman becomes the driving force of her spouse and her surroundings.
However, ancient India always knew a lot of amazing science. Hence, wearing a mangalsutra also has some significant scientific benefits apart from the spiritual ones:
- Centre of the mangalsutra usually made up of gold attract the cosmic waves helping in the sound function of one’s heart.
- These cosmic waves/rays also hold importance for maintaining a healthy relationship between married couples.
Influence and innovation over the recent years
Over several thousand years, gold mangalsutra has undergone a tremendous rendition keeping its aesthetic value intact. According to jewellery experts, South Indian Mangalsutra varies a lot from that of the North Indians. Even this golden string has earned different names in different regions.
Owing to its widespread existence over the country, mangalsutra is now available with astounding designs. Here is an array of unique designs buzzing the Indian market:
Kundan style
With a striking design of big embedded stones and beads, it showcases an elegant and gorgeous look. One can tag this particular style with traditional wear to enhance the overall look.
Floral designed
This is a sober and delicate mangalsutra with a beautifully designed floral pendant. Generally, this comes with a lengthy chain look, giving a bride an extremely stylish appearance.
Square shaped
Breaking the stereotypes, its unique design comes up with a square shaped pendant of medium length. Women who love experimenting with their look can opt for this piece.
Swirl design
Swirl designed mangalsutra is one of the most interesting variations of all. The pendant in this particular type has gold and red emerald with curly branches of beads.
Simple chain
The simple and long chain mangalsutra remains studded with small stones and delicate beads. The brides, who like short and sweet, can opt for this.
Considering the present scenario, the concept of mangalsutra has undergone a progressive change. However, from the ancient days to the contemporaries, golden mangalsutra is ubiquitous.