Formerly used to adorn the idols of deities and later found in the chests of royal families, temple jewellery which has always been an indispensable part of a South Indian bride’s wedding day look, is soon spreading its wings to becoming a hot favourite with Northern brides as well. Available in a myriad of designs and motifs like Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, swans, lotus and several others, these exquisite pieces are quickly making their place in the jewellery cases of women.
Traditionally handcrafted in pure gold and encrusted with precious and semi-precious gemstones like emeralds, diamonds, rubies and pearls; this trend can surely lend your look a majestic touch without going overboard. From a small ring with intricate motifs to a chunky coin necklace, brides will surely have a plethora of options to choose from.Â
Origin
Temple jewellery is an essential contribution by the kings of the chola dynasty, the most significant dynasty in the country that bought reforms in the arena of art, culture and literature. Dated back to the 9th century, the kings of the Chola dynasty played a major role in the development of the south Indian culture. The temple jewellery back then was used to adorn the deities and was a symbol of prosperity and wealth. In the temples of south India , were held workshops that accelerated the craft of jewellery.
The designs of the temple jewellery is thus inspired by the sculptures in the pillars of temples of Tamil Nadu, and that is where the jewelery got its name and came to be known as temple jewellery. At that time, temple jewellery was made up of pure gold and was embedded with uncut precious stones. Temple jewellery is completely handmade and requires an extremely skilful hand. It gained momentum till the 16th century. Inspite of firm and puissant spread of the British and other cultures, the temple jewelry did not lose its essence.
Relevance
Temple jewellery then became a constant ornament for classical dancers as well. Soon after, temple jewelry was synonymous to good luck and respect towards god. Women in south india wore them to various occasions including festivals and weddings. Temple jewellery has gained importance in the north as well lately. The jewellery is now imitated and made up of cheaper metals to increase affordability.
A major part of real temple jewellery is crafted in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu. This is because the artisanship requires extremely fine skills and experience. Achievement of the level of finesse that the jewellery entails is not a matter of a few days. It takes for upto a year to complete. Some much desired motifs include the ones of goddess Laxmi and Ganesh. You can totally adorn an extraordinary piece of temple jewellery on your wedding day!
How To Wear
To satiate the Indo-Western in you. Go for a crisp white shirt and colourful skirt combination. To top off the look you can opt for either a statement necklace or earrings. If you are a vintage lover, hijack your mother’s closet for the cherished silk saree and glam it up with a choker necklace and earrings. As a result, if subtle is not your thing then go ahead and put that matha patti and maang tikka as well. You will truly be the star of the occasion decked up in the old and gold.Â
Bollywood Inspiration
You can take cues from Deepika Padukone who wore temple jewellery at her Konkani wedding. The actress also wore it in ‘Chennai Express’. Hence, if you want to keep your wedding look simple and elegant, Alia Bhatt’s bridal look from ‘2 States’ is the way to go.Â
Also Read:Â Jewellery pieces that exude classic elegance
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