Types of Mangalsutra: Understanding Traditions

by Francis Alukkas | 22 September 2021 | GOLD JEWELLERY

India is a land of different cultural, traditional, and religious practices. Marriages are the most sacred ceremony that celebrates the unification of two souls. ‘Mangalsutra’ is a holy thread that plays an essential role in Hindu culture. In Indian culture, a mangalsutra is similar to a ring or a wedding band in western engagement.

There are different types of mangalsutra. The type of mangalsutra differs in accordance with the community and caste. Mangalsutra is called with other names in various states of India. In South India, mangalsutra are popularly known as ‘Thali.

  Also, Read: The Significance of Mangalsutra

Types of Mangalsutra in South India

The word ‘Mangalsutra’ is a combination of two words, mangal meaning auspicious and sutra meaning thread – together meaning auspicious thread uniting the souls. A Mangalsutra and kumkum in India symbolize the married life of a Hindu woman. It is believed that mangalsutra originated in South India and was adopted by the Northern states. A typical South Indian mangalsutra or Thali has a long yellow thread and a gold pendant representing the Goddess Supreme. The pendant is different with reference to different cultures and practices followed in South India. They come in many shapes and forms.

  Also, check: Latest Pendant Designs in Gold

Traditional South Indian Mangalsutra Designs

Different states in South India have types of mangalsutra styles, names, and different types of mangalsutra designs popularly known as Thali or Thirumangalayam or Mangalyam or Thaaly or Kodi. The shapes and forms of the Thali are derived mythologically or based on the family customs.

Tamil Mangalsutra:

A typical Tamil mangalsutra or Thali Kodi have symbolic representations of the family deity, Tulsi plant, Lord Shiva, or Goddess Meenakshi and are often elaborated by adding gold coins, diamonds, gems, black beads, and others along with the main Thali. These are attached to a gold chain or “Manja Kayiru,” yellow thread.

Kerala Mangalsutra:

In Kerala, Mangalsutra is worn by both Hindus and Christians. While Hindu call it as Thali, that is a leaf-like pendant, Christian call it as Minnu, which is a pendant with a cross. The Thali is usually attached to a gold chain.

  Also, check out the collections of heavy gold mangalsutra

Telugu Mangalsutra

There are different types of mangalsutra in Telugu traditions, each with different names such as Mangalasutramu, Pustelu, Maangalyamu, Ramar Thaali, Bottu depending on the community, caste, and location. A typical Telugu Mangalsutra has two round shape discs or coins tied on a yellow thread, which is unified on the sixteenth day of marriage, symbolizing the unification and harmony between the two families. Different types of mangalsutra designs are followed in accordance to the traditional and cultural beliefs of the community.

Karnataka Mangalsutra

Mangalsutra in Karnataka, especially in the Coorg region of Karnataka, is called as “Karthamani Pathak,” where Karthamani and Pathak are two separate pieces of jewelry. The Karthamani is made of corals and gold beads passed over a thread or gold chain that is worn with the Pathak, gold pendant, which usually has a large gold coin with Lakshmi engraving and has small round rubies studded on the circumference of the coin.

Mangalsutra in Today’s Time

Modern mangalsutra is setting the trend and symbolizing a fashion statement. Wearing a mangalsutra has become a trend in times as of today. Identifying the growing movement and demands, Jewellers, too, are coming up with a number of different styles, including the mangalsutra, with a hint of color using some gemstones. Traditionally mangalsutra is commonly worn in chains. Mangalsutra type bracelets have now adapted Mangalsutra in chain-type.

Although there are different types of mangalsutra designs and styles that are majorly gaining popularity nowadays, even amongst young brides who prefer something stylish and classy, the significance of mangalsutra remains the same.

Women are now shifting the traditional mangalsutra gold chains into fancy chains or bracelets that match their outfit and preferences. Office going women now prefer lightweight mangalsutra over heavy ones and often, after marriage, shift to lighter and simple looking mangalsutra.

At Francis Alukkas, we hold a great collection of types of mangalsutra that match traditional and modern demands. We also allow you to customize your mangalsutra in designs as per your choices and preferences, depending on the size and weight.

Which is your favorite type of mangalsutra? Do you like traditional mangalsutra designs or modern mangalsutra designs?

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