The South Indian bride is often associated with her striking red, gold and green jewellery that is an essential part of her wedding look. These colours are not just trendy but also have significance in the culture. A broad spectrum of jewellery designs is common among South Indian brides, from diamond nose pins to gold-plated temple chains. Red, yellow and green is known as the 'Vedic colours' as they have been mentioned in several Vedic scriptures. They have special significance during religious ceremonies like weddings and Upanayanam (the sacred thread ceremony). Keeping these factors in mind, we bring you some insider tips on choosing the perfect set of south Indian bridal jewellery for your wedding day!
Know your jewellery lingo
While the significance of each piece is quite evident, knowing the correct terminology associated with south Indian bridal jewellery will help you make an informed choice when purchasing your set. This will also enable you to communicate your requirements with your jewellery designs.
Nose Ring:
Also known as Mūkku vaḷaiyam, this is a traditional piece of jewellery worn in the nose's centre. The design usually has a diamond stone or a pearl at the centre. This is an important part of a South Indian bride's jewellery set.
Earring:
The Kātaṇikaḷ is a double drop earring with a pearl or diamond stud at the bottom. It is one of the most prominent and important pieces associated with South Indian bridal jewellery.
Bangle: A Vaḷaiyalkaḷ is a type of traditional South Indian bridal jewellery that is worn on the upper portion of the wrist. It is a wide bracelet with intricate designs of gold or silver.
Necklace:
The malai is an ornamental necklace worn around the neck. It is one of the most prominent pieces of bridal jewellery associated with weddings.
The Importance of South Indian Bridal Jewellery
Although choosing various coloured pieces for your wedding jewellery set is tempting, keeping the significance of the Vedic colours in mind while selecting a set for your bridal wear is important. Traditionally, South Indian brides have worn red, yellow and green jewellery during their wedding. These colours are not just trendy but also have significance in the culture. Red is associated with love and prosperity, yellow signifies wealth, and green is for fertility. Apart from their aesthetic appeal, these pieces also have a religious significance, as they are often worn as offerings to the gods. Apart from the colours, the shape of the jewellery is also significant in South Indian wedding jewellery. Diamond studs, anklets, and rings are all associated with the number nine. Nine, in the Hindu culture, is a lucky number that signifies completion. Similarly, the fish-shaped pendant is symbolic of fertility and prosperity. On the other hand, the lotus flower-shaped pendant is associated with the celestial goddess Lakshmi.
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