Significance of Mangalsutra in Hindu Culture

In this article, we will talk about the Significance of Mangalsutra in Hindu culture.
 
Mangalsutra plays a significant role in Hindu culture and traditions. Unlike Indian Bridal Jewelleries, Mangalsutra is not “just” an ornament and symbolizes the marital status of the women. In India, Hindu married women wear it as an auspicious thread of goodwill and love. Just like wedding bands are exchanged as a token of love, in Hindu culture, Mangalsutra is considered a token of love that is tied around the bride’s neck by the groom on the wedding day. Read on to know more.
 

The cultural significance of Mangalsutra

The Symbolism of Mangalsutra

 
In appearance, a Mangalsutra might look like a piece of jewellery. However, it holds a special place. It is a promise made by the husband to the wife of staying together forever. Mangalsutra also symbolizes the union of two souls (husband and wife) and protects them from all the evil in the world. To safeguard the married life of her and her husband, a Hindu bride (wife) wears Mangalsutra.
 

Regional variations of Mangalsutra

• In the Bihari section of Indian society, Mangalsutra comprises of only a black beaded chain with a central gold pendant. 
• In Tamil Nadu, a complete gold chain is tied instead of turmeric thread along with the Thali. 
• In the Telugu community, precious stones like pearl and coral are incorporated along with the Thali pendant. 
• There are different types of Mangalsutra designs available in India.

A style statement

 
Apart from being a mandatory and traditional ornament, Mangalsutra has now become more of a style statement. Women now wear exclusive designs with different metals, platinum and alloys. Even diamond and pure gold pendants are trending.
 
Television soap operas are a driving force for women to change their mindset regarding the Mangalsutra. As a result, many women contribute to more sleek designs that complement their clothing.
 

Health benefits of Mangalsutra

• Boosting the immune system
• Regularizes blood flow and keeps you fresh and energetic
• Balances the blood pressure levels
• Stimulates the Surya nadi or the sun channel in the woman’s body and awakens the inherent energy in it.

How many black beads should be there in mangalsutra?

A traditional Mangalstura is made by stringing nine black beads with nine gold beads. There are seven parts of the nine black heads in the two strands of a Mangalsutra. Four round-shaped gold beads are arranged in a square to form a central link. This helps to protect the woman from constant negative energy attacks.
 
The nine black beads in the Mangalsutra represent the nine forms of Adishakti. Adishakti means Primal Energy that protects a woman from the evil eyes. The black beads contain the power of Water and Earth elements while the gold beads contain Air and Fire elements that ward off evil energies.
 
By combining the four elements, the mangalsutra is formed that protects the husband and wife’s relationship.
 

Hindu Mangalsutra designs

 
Based on various Hindu culture customs, there are variations to the Mangalsutra design. You will also find various contemporary designs.
 

 


 
To keep up with professional demands of specific attires and outfits, many women are having to part ways with the mangalsutra and other ornaments. Despite all such limitations, contemporary Indian women still find ways to include the mangalsutra in their modern outfits by picking sleeker designs to stay close to the traditional heritage and maintain significance of Mangalsutra effectively.