Indian women are well-known for their penchant for collecting jewelry, particularly gold jewelry. And Mangalsutra contributes significantly to this pile. Mangalsutra is considered Soubhagyalankar in Hindu dharma when worn around the neck. As you may know, Soubhagya refers to the woman’s marital status, whereas Alankar refers to her ornament.
What is Mangalsutra?
Mangalsutra or “mangalsutram” is a Sanskrit term that means “prosperous, blessed, happy, and successful,” and “sutram” means “cord.” A mangalsutra should ideally be made up of 108 (auspicious number) fine cotton threads twisted together and yellow-dyed in saffron or turmeric. A gold thali is placed in the center of the thread.
When the groom fastens the mangalsutra around the bride’s neck and secures it with three knots, the priest recites mantras (chants). The act of tying a mangalsutra indicates that the groom and bride are united and responsible for looking after each other.
The mangalsutra is considered an auspicious amulet. As per the traditional tales, a bride is said to be immune to all the evil eye by wearing the mangalsutra. Anyone who sees her is automatically bestowed with good fortune.
Mangala is also the name of the fourth planet Mars, which has the same color as the auspicious garment color worn by Hindu brides. Because of this association, the coral gem (manga) sacred to Mars is commonly used. In addition, black glass beads are used to make the mangalsutra chain (kala pota).
What is the significance of Mangalsutra in Indian marriage?
The Mangalsutra is deeply symbolic in nature, with religious and spiritual beliefs at its core. When the groom ties the knot, it symbolizes ‘Until death do us part.’ It is also viewed as a symbol of marriage. The bride is expected to wear it for the rest of her life. The Mangalsutra represents the bride and groom’s eternal love and commitment.
In South India, the Golden Mangalsutra is adorned with three knots representing three significant points. In that order, the three knots represent loyalty, dedication, and devotion to the husband, family, and Lord. In some parts of India, the groom’s first knot is followed by two knots tied by his sisters. A Mangalsutra’s black beads are meant to repel the evil eye and protect the new husband and wife. The wife wearing the Mangalsutra is also thought to protect her husband from misfortune and danger.
According to Hindu tradition, a woman must wear five signs of marital status: the Mangalsutra, toe rings, Kumkum, bangles, and a nose ring. The mangalsutra is thought to be the most important of all. “Mangal” means sacred, and “sutra” means thread, so the name “Sacred thread” was coined.
Wearing Mangalsutra is thought to have originally originated in South India, where it is also known as Thali or Mangalyam. A yellow thread smeared with turmeric paste was traditionally tied in three knots around the bride’s neck. However, with the passage of time, it has evolved into a necklace with black and gold beads strung on the thread.
Though the concept of Mangalsutra originated in South India, it spread to other parts of the country and has evolved accordingly. This gave rise to various Mangalsutra variations with varying patterns and designs.
In the Sikh community, for example, the groom’s father presents gold coins and a gold bangle threaded in black thread to form a Mangalsutra.
Mangalsutra is nothing but a chain of black beads with a central gold pendant in the Bihari section of Indian society.
In Tamil Nadu, a gold chain is tied along with the Thali instead of turmeric thread.
Precious stones such as pearl and coral are used in conjunction with the Thali pendant in the Telugu community.
Mangalsutra has evolved from a mandatory and traditional ornament to a fashion statement. Women are now wearing exclusive designs made of various metals, platinum, and alloys. Pendants made of diamonds and pure gold are also popular.
Apart from traditional beliefs, mangalsutra also has certain health benefits. Yes, you read it correctly! Health Benefits.
What are the Health Benefits of Mangalsutra?
Mangalsutra not only protects the lady of the house from supernatural forces, but it also provides various health benefits. For example, when the Mangalsutra pendant is worn in such a way that it reaches the bride’s Anahat Chakra, it protects the heart and keeps negative energies at bay. This is due to gold’s healing properties.
Gold attracts cosmic waves and promotes healthy heart and body function when kept close to the skin. Furthermore, because of their holiness, black beads keep negative energy at bay and reduce pain and restlessness in a person. It simply keeps the woman upbeat and content.
Wearing a Mangalsutra improves the functioning of the immune system. The yellow sacred thread regulates blood circulation, allowing the woman to be active in all ways.
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