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Adorning bangles in arms has been an
Indian/Pakistani tradition since time immemorial. Bangles enhance the
overall grace and beauty of woman as well as perfectly complement ethnic or
casual wear. Depending on our traditions and customs, there are different
types of bangles that are worn by women. Below is a brief description of
each.
Bracelets:
Bracelets are a piece of jewellery or clothing that adorns the wrist. These
can be worn by men, women as well as kids. These are usually flexible and in
solid form, hence can be adjusted according to the wrist size. Bracelets are
made of metal, cloth or leather and accessorized with beads, rocks, shells,
precious or semi-precious stones and gems. Depending on the design, purpose
and style; different types of bracelets are available. These include angle
bracelets, expansion bracelets, cuff bracelets, beaded bracelets, charm
bracelets, spiral bracelets and link bracelets. Depending on the
craftsmanship and components used in its making, bracelets can vary in
prices.
Bangles:
Bangles are solid in form and usually not flexible as in the case of
bracelets. Bangles made of glass in different colors are the most popular
type of bangles. Bangles form the most essential part of traditional
jewellery, and are usually worn in pairs on one or both wrists. Besides
glass, bangles are also made of numerous precious as well non-precious
materials like gold, silver, steel, platinum, wood, ferrous, metal, plastic
etc. The designs vary from plain or simple to intricately ornate patterns
studded with precious or semi-precious gems or stones like diamonds, pearls
or other gems. The more ornate bangles are best suited for special
occasions. They complete the traditional outfits and the more modern designs
go perfectly well with western outfits as well a perfect amalgamation of
indo/pak-western fashion styles. Bangles are usually smooth textured and
when made from ordinary glass measure about 1/4 - 1/8 inch in width.
Kangan:
Kangan is a type bangle which is much thicker than the usual bangles. The
more ornate kanghans are usually worn on each wrist to impart a minimalist
and rich look. These again are available in different materials like gold,
silver, brass, metal, wood etc. either plain or intricately carved or
designed in precious or semi-precious gems.
Arm Bands:
Arm bands are worn to decorate the upper arms, and are available in simple
or ornate designs. These are again made of metal or plastic in decorative
designs and are worn with sleeveless or short sleeved outfits.
Wedding Bangles - Chura (Set Of Bridal Bangles in Maroon / Red &
White):
In a typical Punjabi wedding the activities begin weeks before the actual
marriage ceremony takes place. As friends and relatives pour in, the wedding
home starts acquiring a carnival like atmosphere. After the formal
engagement the real festivities begin.
One of the most important ritual connected with the bride's wedding is
Churha or the bangles ceremony, where the maternal uncle (mama) of the bride
cover the bride's wrists with and a set of white and red bangles called
CHURA (Wedding Bangles) for the girl. Hence it is also known as Mama Chura.
A Punjabi bride’s wedding adornment includes red and white bridal bangles,
gold jewelry, and intricate henna painting, highlighting her natural beauty
and showcases her simple and elegant taste in clothes and jewelry.
The bride wears heavy gold jewelry and tikka in the parting of her hair (a
glittering pendent on her head). She drapes her head and shoulders with the
dupatta, a richly embroidered mantle. A nath adorns her nose. The bride, in
red, and gold-laden with ivory chura worn in hand, gently glides out with
her friends, her petal feet giving out music to scatter flowers on "his" way
and receives " him".
Wedding atmosphere prevails in both the families and women assemble and sing
songs of marriage to the accompaniment of drums eulogizing the velour of the
boy and the beauty of the girl.
Ladies Bangles:
These find a great demand to wear with plain or embroidered salwar kameez,
churidar kameez, sharara kurta or Punjabi suit (a dress as popular as the
traditional Saree / Sari) and tribal belly dancing outfits and also a great
match with western styles like skirts, jeans and pants as well. These have
become a choice in accessories for ladies in parties and formal gatherings.
These are so beautiful that whoever sees them would like to own these. You
will be the centre of attraction wearing these bangles, while attending any
wedding reception or formal parties
Courtesy: Savera Nadeem
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Savera Nadeem