Mandatory Symbols Of Marriage

Traditionally, there is more to marriage in India than just celebration and fun. Various customs and rituals are associated with marriages which portray the real essence of the wedding. Traditionally there are five signs of the marital status of women, according to Hindu culture- mangalsutra, toe-rings, kumkum, bangles and a nose ring.

1. Mangalsutra
   

   

   Talking about Mangalsutra, the word denotes a significant meaning. While mangal means auspicious, sutra can be deciphered as a thread. Every married woman used to get a Mangalsutra, which is known as Thali in Tamil and Thirumangalyam amongst Sri Vaishnavas. This is believed to regularise a women’s blood circulation. This is believed to regularise a women’s blood circulation. it also controls the body pressure levels to a maximum extent, as Indian women tend to work hard, more than her male counterpart.

2. Toe Rings
   

   

   Another symbol is Metti or Bichhua (toe ring) used by Indian married women in general and Brahman women in particular. It is made of silver. This is a ring with two or three line rounds, worn in the second finger from the toe. By wearing this in both feet, it is believed, that the menstrual cycle course is regularised with even intervals. This gives good scope for conceiving to married women. It is also said that a particular nerve in the second finger from the toe, also connects the uterus and passes through the heart. Hence, the friction caused while walking and doing all sorts of chores revitalises the productivity organs.

3. Bangles
   

   

   In North India, many women deck their arms with bangles in vivid green and red. And the Chooda that is presented to the bride by her mama (maternal uncle) is the one she has to wear for at least 40 days after her marriage. It is traditionally a set of ivory bangles with inlay work. The shell shakha and red Paula bangles hold great importance in Bengali marriage. Almost all Bengali women wear these bangles for the lifetime or until their husbands are alive. 

4. Bindi
   

   

   A bindi is a forehead decoration worn in South Asia (particularly India) and Southeast Asia. Traditionally it is a dot of the red colour of sandalwood paste, turmeric or vermillion applied in the centre of the forehead close to the eyebrows, but it can also consist of a sign or piece of jewellery worn at this location. Do not confuse it with the tilak which is also used by men to show religious affiliation or by both sexes after a puja ritual to invoke religious feelings.

5. Nose pin/ ring
   

   

   The next item is a piece of stud-like ornament worn by women in their nose, commonly known as nose-ring and nose stud. Also known as Mukkuthi or Mookuthi in Tamil and Nath in Hindi. The custom to wear this ornamental jewel is typically different from one state to other, one caste to other and even different amongst communities. Though it is mainly used for beautifying women, the in-depth meaning can be termed as unfound myth. 

   Also read: 5 Unique Things To Witness At A Marathi Wedding