Types of Mangalsutra and Their Meanings

Types of Mangalsutra and Their Meanings

PUBLISHED IN Gold Jewellery


From its beginnings in the Indus Valley 5000 years ago, the Mangalsutra has evolved through the ages, and become an essential part of a bride’s wedding trousseau.

The journey of the Mangalsutra began with the invention of finely spun cotton that was converted into a thread. This sacred thread was adorned with delicate beads to add to its charm. As turmeric was discovered, the cotton thread was dipped in it for its healing properties, and was later forged in gold and embellished with precious black and coral beads to create the modern day Mangalsutra, an integral part of every bridal jewellery set.

The Mangalsutra finds reference in verses across ancient texts. From the Soundarya Lahari written by sage Adi Shankara to Saunaka Smriti written in the 5th century, its origin traces back to ancient India. Today, this beautiful piece of wedding jewellery stands as a sparkling symbol of both love and legacy.

While every culture celebrates the union of love with all its heart, it manifests differently in cultures across the country.

From the talisman-esque Tamil Thalli to the Maharashtrian Wati or the Garhwali Mangalsutra, each is reflective of our heritage and testimony to our commitment in marriage.


Maharashtrian Wati : Showcasing dualism in the union of souls

Celebrating the world as a unified whole, the Maharashtrian Wati is a symbolic reminder of how every union in the world is “a coming together of the male and female energies that complement each other for eternity”.

The two Watis in the Maharashtrian Mangalsutra represent the coming together of two families as well as the male-female principle. The use of black and gold further showcase the concept of dualism.

The Maharashtrian Wati, a quintessential part of Maharashtrian bridal jewellery, it has two conical vessel-shaped gold pendants that are often filled with haldi and Kumkum.


Tamil Thali : A confluence of mystical icons and symbols

Believed to secure the health, happiness and long life of the couple, the Tamil Thali is a talisman of good health and protection.

It is characterised by two pendants, each gifted by the groom and bride’s side. Each of these pendants is further adorned with delicate beads of coral and gold, adding to the charm and strength of this statement piece.

What started as a talisman for protection has developed into this precious piece of jewellery, as the ultimate symbol of the sacred union.


Garhwali Mangalsutra : Symbolising good health and protection from evil

Rich with meaning and cultural heritage, the Garhwali Mangalsutra, also called the Matar Mala, adorns the beautiful brides from the Kumaoni, Garhwali, Pahari, Jaunsari and Bhotiya regions,

The Garhwali Mangalsutra has gold and black beads strung together. The number of gold beads in it can range from 5 to 8, carefully strung together with a heavy gold pendant at the centre.

Like many of its variants from other cultures, the Garhwali Mangalsutra is worn long to nestle in the Anahata Chakra, or the Heart Chakra, to symbolize & protect the wellbeing of the couple.


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