Add Marathi Bridal Jewellery to Your Trousseau for That Extra Bling and Glitz

When you see a Maharashtrian bride, you see colours, fervour and loads of energy in the whole bridal aura. The stunning Paithani sarees, the traditional Marathi bridal makeup and the spectacular pieces of Marathi bridal jewellery- all of these together complete the vivacious look of a Mulgi! So far, you’ve already read about the gorgeous South Indian jewellery, now it’s time to explore some ornaments from the land of Marathas. Keep reading, noting and picking your favourite Marathi jewellery items to add to your own trousseau:

1. Mundavlya - the headband

One of the signature elements of Marathi bridal jewellery is the Mundavlya. In a typical Maharashtrian wedding, both the groom and the bride wear a headband made of pearl strings with two additional strings hanging from both sides of the head. Sometimes, a Mundavlaya is also made of flowers.

2. Nath- The Pearl Nose piece

You wouldn’t spot a Marathi bride without an exquisite Nath! This pearl nose piece is an integral part of Marathi bridal jewellery and is an absolute must to complete the bridal look. Apart from the tiny pearls, a Nath has ruby and sometimes diamonds studded in it. The designs and styles of a Nath differ because of regional variations.

3. Kolhapuri Saaj- the 21 elements necklace

Originating from Kolhapur, this Marathi bridal jewellery piece comprises of 21 elements. Ten of these elements depict the ten Avatars; eight elements symbolise auspicious occurrence; three are made of ruby and emerald pendants and the last pendant is to protect from evil forces. Along with the Kolhapuri Saaj, a Marathi bride also wears a Putli Haar which is made of coins with Laxmi motifs. This necklace is believed to bring luck and wealth.

4. Mohan Mala - gold beaded necklace

A Mohan mala is a necklace with multiple layers of gold beaded strings. The gold beads look very elegant and give a fuller look to the whole Marathi bridal jewellery set.

5. Thushi- the choker

Also originated from Kolhapur and made of 22 karat gold, a Thushi is a gorgeous Marathi bridal jewellery piece that symbolises prosperity at the bride’s new home. It is a choker style necklace with strings of gold beads tied together, sometimes with a central pendant.

6. Tanmani- Pearl strings necklace

Pearls are quite a popular element in Marathi bridal jewellery. A Tanmani is usually made of three, four or more strings of pearls strewn together with a large pendant at the centre. The pendant has precious stones like rubies, emeralds or diamonds studded in it. The pearl strings are fixed with gold clips with stone studs in between.

7. Belpaan- Bel leaves necklace

A Belpan is inspired by the shape of Bel leaves. This particular piece of Marathi bridal jewellery is dedicated to Lord Shiva and hence considered sacred.

8. Vaaki- The Armlet

With 23 karat gold Bajuband and stone embellishments at the centre, a Vaaki is a divine looking element of Marathi bridal jewellery. The gold arm band has a floral motif at the centre which is usually made with studded ruby. The ruby signifies the sun and the red colour is considered auspicious for Hindu brides.

9. Ambada Veni Phool- Bun Pin

Ambada Veni phool is a part of Marathi bridal jewellery that is specially designed as hair accessory. A 22-karat gold ornament worn as a bun pin, the most popular design is sunflower with jowar beads. Usually Lac and ruby are used to make an Ambada Veni phool.

10. Tode and Choora- The Bangles

Another very distinct components of Marathi bridal jewellery are the Tode and Chura. Tode are the thick handmade gold Kadas which take over a month to create. The signature green bangles or the Chura are made of glass and worn in odd numbers on both hands. The colour green symbolises fertility.

11. Kudya- The ear-cuffs

Beautiful pearl ear cuffs are an absolute must addition in Marathi bridal jewellery list. Kudya is also made of gold with pearl studs for elaborate designs.

12. Jodvi- The Toe-ring

A silver Jodvi is gifted to the bride by her mother-in-law at the wedding. This significant part of Marathi bridal jewellery symbolises the bride’s entry to her new home.

13. Mangalsutra

Like many other traditions in Indian marriages, a Mangalsutra is an essential piece of Marathi bridal jewellery too. Made of black and gold beads, this is an iconic symbol of a bride.

Are you already in love with Marathi bridal jewellery? If you’re in the city, why don’t you take a little tour of the jewellery shops in Mumbai to start with? You can go for the entire traditional package of jewellery, or you can also use substitutes. For example, many brides go for floral Ambada Veni Phool these days instead of gold. Or, maybe you could opt for imitation jewellery for Jodvi or Tanmani. Do what suits your budget and traditions. If not, then go all the way and adorn yourself with some angelic ornaments. After all, there is nothing more divine and graceful than traditional Indian jewellery.

So which one is your favourite piece of Marathi jewellery? Share with us in the comment section below.