This revered part of wedlock is basically a yellow colored thread in which black and gold beads are interlaced together with a pendent. It could also be a golden chain with numerous black beads in it. This culture of wearing a Mangalsutra is somewhat similar to the wedding rings that are worn in the West. The Indian brides wear it throughout their life. It is also a symbol of union between a husband and wife, a man and a woman. Many are of the opinion that it is a husband’s promise to his wife to live together. The importance of Mangalsutra in a Hindu marriage cannot be overruled. It defines Indian marriages.
Significance of Mangalsutra in marriages
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It is tied by the groom around his bride’s neck right after the Saat Phera ritual. Though it appears to be just another piece of jewelry, its significance is much greater. It is termed as the thali or maangalyam in Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu in the southern part of India where the concept had originated while people living in the north call it Mangalsutra. Typically in south the Maangalyam is made from a yellow thread that is smeared with turmeric paste. This piece of thread is secured with three knots, wherein the first one is tied by the groom and the remaining two knots are tied by his sister
More than just a symbol of marriage
Considered auspicious for married wives, mangalsutra is believed to have heavenly powers. Each of the black beads that are embedded in this piece is to guard the couple from all kinds of evil powers. The pendant has two golden or diamond rounds which are symbolic of the union of the married couple. A woman wearing this piece of ornament gives the affirmation that she is married and she shall continue to wear it till her lifetime.
New trends in Mangalsutra
Nowadays, the traditional forms of wearing Mangalsutra are being subject to modifications. Instead of wearing a long stretch of golden string, women now favor a shorter one. Golden pendants are slowly being replaced by more popular diamond ones. It has acquired the status of a fashion statement, as newlywed brides flaunt it to show their newly acquired marital bliss.
Despite all the transitions, Mangalsutra shall remain to be the epithet of love and union.
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