Did You Know The Significance Of Mangalsutra?

In the time when we all consider jewellery as an essential to make a fashion statement, there is one necklace that women in India wear as a symbol that defines their holy bond with their husband. Yes, we are talking about the mangalsutra. The designs for mangalsutra may have evolved over the years, but its divine significance continues to remain unaltered.

The term Mangalsutra is a combination of two words mangal and sutra. The word mangal means auspicious and sutra means thread – together mangalsutra means an auspicious thread uniting the souls. The groom ties the auspicious thread around the bride’s neck on the day of their holy nuptial as significance that their relationship would be as auspicious as the thread. A typical mangalsutra has two strings of black beads and a pendant.

The groom ties the auspicious thread around the bride’s neck on the day of their holy nuptial as significance that their relationship would be as auspicious as the thread. It symbolises that they will be mates for life until death separates them.

A mangalsutra is a symbol of marriage and the wife is meant to wear it all her life indicating the love and commitment the husband and wife have towards each other. South Indians believe that the mangalsutra needs to be tied in 3 knots with each knot carrying a significance – loyalty towards the husband, dedication to the family, and devotion to the lord. In some parts of the country, the first knot is tied by the husband and the remaining two knots are tied by the groom’s sisters. It is believed that the black beads of a mangalsutra are blessed with divine powers to protect the married couple. It is also believed that the wife wears a mangalsutra to shield her husband from bad luck or danger.

It is believed that mangalsutra, which is one of the most essential aspects of the Hindu tradition, originated in South India and was adopted by the Northern states. In South India, the name and style of a mangalsutra change depending on the community and caste. It is usually called a Thaali or Thirumangalyam, and it has a long yellow thread and a gold pendant representing the Goddess Supreme. The North Indian version of a mangalsutra usually has a black beads chain and a gold pendant. The pendant is called the Tanmaniya and it comes in a variety of designs. North Indian weddings usually have a separate ceremony for tying the sacred thread around the bride’s neck. However, some traditions do not have any such ritual. For instance, Bengali brides don’t wear Mangalsutras. Instead, they wear Shakha Paula bangles (conch bangles). Similarly, the Marwaris do not have the custom of wearing a Mangalsutra. However, they have been sporting the jewellery due to the increasing pop culture. Health Benefits of Wearing a MangalsutraImage

While most people associate mangalsutra with a religious custom, there is also a sound scientific justification behind it. Hindu culture emphasises on wearing a mangalsutra made of pure gold and it is often advised that the mangalsutra should be hidden behind the inners. According to Ayurveda - the ancient Indian science – pure gold has a number of healing properties, and the most important of them is improved heart health. Ayurveda reveals that wearing a mangalsutra close to the heart (touching the skin) attracts cosmic waves from the surroundings and aids heart functioning. It is also considered that these waves help in maintaining a happy, healthy relationship between the husband and wife. The health benefits of wearing a mangalsutra include 

• Wearing a mangalsutra helps in the development of the immune system.
• It regularises blood flow and keeps her fresh and energetic.
• Regularises blood pressure.
• Stimulates the Surya-nadi or the Sun-channel in the woman body and awakens the inherent energy in it.

Apart from the health benefits, it is also believed that a mangalsutra having mustard-sized black beads in it wards off the evil while upholding the sanctity of the marriage.

Wearing a mangalsutra has become a trend of sorts and jewellers too are coming up with a number of different styles including the mangalsutra with a hint of colour using some gemstones. The latest styles in mangalsutra also include the addition of diamonds with intricate motifs. This is becoming a huge hit among women. The floral design in mangalsutras is becoming quite popular among young brides who prefer something stylish and classy. The floral designs are also very popular in the office going women who like wearing sophisticated designs.

There is a growing inclination towards lightweight and subtle designs that give an elegant look.  A simple diamond pendant or a classy ball pendant with simple black bead strings make for an ideal mangalsutra for a daily fashion statement. Women are also taking inspiration from Bollywood stars and their mangalsutras. The actress designed her own mangalsutra with their star signs (Leo and Gemini). With the unique mangalsutra, the actress turned an inspiration to those who wish to personalise their own mangalsutra. A mangalsutra is not just a piece of jewellery or a fashion accessory; it is a symbol of eternal love, respect, and trust that a husband and wife share. Surprise your loved one with a beautiful mangalsutra today. Don’t let your time constraint become a hurdle. Browse the range at Candere.com and get it delivered to your doorstep.