SHRINGAR THE MEANING

The name SHRINGAR is based on the Sanskrit translation for sringara which means attraction or beauty. But our sole meaning for what we do comes from the mythological association with the SOLAH SHRINGAR. Solah Shringar is a ritual whereby the Indian bride is embellished from the top of the head to the toe in the 16 adornments that she needs to wear on her wedding day, but most of these ornaments have a hidden meaning as well. Generally, it is a symbol of femininity and fertility as linked with the Goddess Lakshmi, who is the goddess of beauty, fertility and prosperity in the Hindu culture. Take a glimpse at the accessories and jewels which Solah Shringar encompasses.

THE SOLAH SHRINGAR

Bindi

Traditionally, it used to be applied with the help of the vermillion powder, but now the sticker and gem-encrusted bindis are popularly used.

Sindoor

Sindoor refers to Vermillion, a red powder that the groom applies in the centre parting of the hair of his bride during the marriage ceremony. It denotes the aspect of completeness, which a woman accomplishes, as she gets united with her man with the sacred ritual of marriage.

Maang Tikka

Maang teeka is a hair accessory that adorns the forehead of the bride it is worn in the hair parting. This ornament increases the charm of the bride as it highlights her face.

Anjana or Kajal

A black dye made out of soot from the diya or coal fire and mixed with oil, is generally applied to the eyes. It is applied to line both the upper and lower eyelash lines. It makes the eyes look more enticing, by giving it a defining shape and a hint of mystery.

Nath or Nose Ornament

This is a nose ring it is worn through a piercing in the left nostril, which again is symbol of marital life, perhaps one of the most ethnic Indian ornaments. It comprises of clusters of gems or pearls or colourful stones.

Haar or Necklace

The Haar or the Necklace is probably the centrepiece of the whole bridal outfit. There are several types of necklaces such as simple gold chains, short or long, Chokers, Haars or long elaborate decorative necklaces that are usually made of gold and often set with precious stones. A prime souvenir from the husband to his wife is Mangalsutra, Made of black beads along with a gold centrepiece, often studded with diamonds.

Karn Phool or Ear Ornaments

Karn Phool or earrings is an important element of Brides makeover made from Diamond, Kundan or Meenakri it is worn complementing the haar or necklace. The most popular ones are the Jhumka. Some also include Karn Phools, elaborate earcuffs, while some just include simple Kaan chains.

Mehendi

Mehendi or henna is the art of applying the paste of an indigenous herb in elaborate designs on the hands and feet of the bride which imparts a deep red colour. The richness of the colour has immense significance in Indian culture as it symbolizes luck, prosperity and fertility. It is customary to include the groom's initials in the mehendi designs and as a post-wedding ritual the groom has to search for it on the bride's painted hands.

Choodiyan or Bangles

Bangles are classical adornments accompanying the bridal attire. The bride wears bangles to signify prosperity of the family. This visible sign of marriage is usually worn in red or green colours and can be made out of iron, ceramic, gold, silver, glass or metal.

Baajuband or Armlet

The bajuband or Armband is an ornament to be worn on the upper arms. It is more common among Rajasthani and South Indian brides. It is often made of gold, sometimes with silver, adorned with precious stones.

Aarsi & Haathphool

Haathphool are the eight rings (barring the two thumbs) that the bride wears on both her hands Aarsi refers to a special type of thumb ring studded with a mirror, so that the bride may catch a glimpse of her groom in it. Reason being that earlier, the brides had veils which did not give them an opportunity to see their husband to be.

Hair Accessory or Keshapasharachana

This stands for the hair adornment. The bride usually ties her hair in a traditional braid or bun which is then embellished with gold ornaments and flowers in particular. Jasmine flowers are traditionally used because of their long lasting fragrance.

Kamarband or Waist Accessory

Kamarband is the waistband that enhances the graceful shape of a female silhouette. This ornament is made out of gold and embellished with gems. Furthermore, this ornate belt also helps in keeping the dress or sari in place.

Payal or Anklets

Payal also known as anklets are chains of silver or gold with chiming beads and designs hanging to it. While, the bride walks in these anklets, it signifies the entry of Goddess Lakshmi.

Bichuas

Bichuas stands for toe rings gifted by the mother-in-law, made in either silver or gold. They are usually worn on the second toe and are significant of married life. In a lot of regions in India, this is also worn as fashion accessory.

Itar or Scent

The bride is often drenched in perfumeries like Itar in olden days to make her smell good throughout the wedding ritual. The perfumes is said to clam her nerves down and add another dimension to her whole get up.