The elegance of Malayali bridal jewellery lies in the layering of different exquisite gold necklaces. Let’s discover the art of layering from our South Indian goddesses.
From mottu mala to ekkathali, Malayali bridal jewellery has a way of stealing hearts with its unique but traditional styles and designs. Gold jewellery is traditionally worn by Malayali brides in a unique layered fashion. The age-old tradition of giving gold to the bride during the time of the wedding stems from the belief that it brings prosperity to her married life. Believing and following these traditions, South Indian brides, especially Malayali brides, adorn themselves in exquisite gold jewellery embodying divine simplicity and regal elegance on their special day.
Read the blog that our Wedding Affair team has prepared for you to take some magical inspiration from Malayali bridal jewellery.
The Mullamottu Mala
Inspired by the jasmine flowers, this traditional necklace of Malayali bridal jewellery is adorned by the bride in the outermost line of the several necklace pieces in her bridal jewellery sets. The long length of the necklace adds a regal touch to the bridal ensemble. Easily customisable, this gold necklace is made of closely set jasmine bud motifs that settle like a floral garland around the bosom of the bride.
The Maanga Maala
This exquisite piece of maanga maala of Malayali bridal jewellery is intricately designed in gold with enamel gemstones. Traditionally worn near the neck, the precision and grandeur of this mango or Paisley motif are unmatched. Adding this intricate bridal accessory adds a gleaming touch to the overall bridal attire.
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The Lakshmi Maala
True to its name, a Lakshmi maala is a necklace that personifies the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi in all her glory. With a design similar to that of a coin necklace, prevalent in Tamil Nadu, the necklace has the goddess’s motif engraved on the coins. To invoke the blessings of the goddess Lakshmi, the necklace is worn traditionally in the Malayali bridal ensemble. It also signifies the manifestation of wealth and prosperity that the bride will bring with her to the family she is going to spend the rest of her life in.
The Palakka Maala
Embellished with precious stones, the palakka maala in Malayali bridal jewellery is believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to the lives of the wearer. With an impressive central pendant, the necklace carries intricately designed motifs of leaves. It is believed to bring fertility and prosperity to the bride’s life.
The Nagapada Thali
Similar to a choker in design, a nagapadi thali is an exquisite bridal necklace inspired by the nagas and their king cobra. Encrusted closely in emeralds, rubies, and precious stones, the motifs are intricately designed together to exude royal and strong character and aura.
The Elakkathali
Native to Kerela, the elakkathali is a truly unique choker design. Without this sophisticated necklace set in gold plates and closely intertwined design the bridal trousseau of a Malayali bride is incomplete. True to its name, this signature choker design sits at the throat of the bride. Due to its signature choker design, it becomes the foremost necklace that the bride adorns on her wedding day.
Other Significant Accessories of Malayali Bridal Trousseau
Apart from adorning themselves with different layers of gold necklaces, Malayali brides also take on gold bangles on both their forearms, with intricately designed Jhumki for ears, gold or silver anklets for ankles, and elaborately designed floral embellishments in their hair. The complete bridal look is what makes them look similar to a royal queen.
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From the beloved palakka haram to the classic nagapadam necklace, Malayali bridal jewellery is a beautiful blend of elegant traditions and charming style. Explore these beloved styles and find the perfect pieces to create your memorable bridal look.
