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Mangalsutra - Sacred Symbol of Marriage
A mangalsutra (also mangala sutra or mangalasutra) is a symbol of Hindu marriage, consisting of a gold ornament strung from a yellow thread, a string of black beads or a gold chain. It is comparable to a western wedding ring. A Hindu marriage symbolizes not just a bonding of two individuals but also the bonding of understanding, commitment, mutual love and spiritual growth.
In the Hindu tradition a marriage demands sacrifice, companionship, dedication, and surrender by both the partners. Each and every ritual and custom associated with marriage portrays the real essence of wedding. The mangalsutra is one such symbol of marriage. It is not just a piece of jewelry but has lots of significance to a married Indian woman. It is a sacred thread of love and goodwill worn by married women as a symbol of their marriage.
The groom ties it around the neck of the bride on the day of their marriage signifying their union. It is known by different names in different states of the country. In south it is known as Thaali and Mangalsutra in north India. Mangalsutra is the token of dignity and love given to a bride by her groom.
Today however the concept of wearing a mangalsutra has changed having evolved into more of a fashion statement than a symbol of marriage. And the credit for this change in mindset goes to the popular television soaps and Bollywood movies.
Even the style has also changed over the years. Previously women use to wear a simple design mangalsutra with small pendants but now the trend is to wear short length with single string and more and more women today prefer diamond pendants or diamond mangalsutras instead of just gold. But the black beads remain constant. Whatever may be the reason to wear it, the mangalsutra will continue to symbolize the real essence and concept of marriage.
