Have you ever wondered why mangalsutra is important and the reason behind an average Indian married woman wearing that astonishingly beautiful piece of gold jewellery around her neck?
We have seen the pandit/priest who demands that exquisite piece of treasure around the neck of a woman while chanting holy hymns and mantras. Most of us know that it is something that symbolises marriage.
In this blog, we will explore the reasons why the Mangalsutra is considered important for Indian Weddings.
Also check out our article on the factors involved in calculating the value of a gold ring in India here.
The Significance of the Mangalsutra!
Here are key points why the holy thread is considered important in Indian Weddings and have such high value and significance for marriages in India
Symbol of Marriage
The mangalsutra is a symbol of the bond between husband and wife. It signifies the commitment, love, and trust shared between the two partners.
It is believed that the mangalsutra protects the marriage and brings happiness and prosperity to the couple.
Spiritual Significance:
It is also considered to have spiritual significance. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil and negative energy.
The black beads in the mangalsutra are said to absorb negative energy, protecting the couple from any harm.
Cultural Significance:
The mangalsutra has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. It is seen as a symbol of a woman’s identity as a married woman.
It is worn as a sign of respect for the husband and his family.
Rituals and Traditions:
The mangalsutra is an essential part of Hindu wedding rituals.
During the wedding ceremony, the groom ties the mangalsutra around the bride’s neck, signifying their union.
It is also an important part of many other rituals and customs, including Karva Chauth and other festivals.
Legacy:
This holy thread is often passed down through generations as a family heirloom.
It is seen as a symbol of the family’s heritage and history, carrying with it the memories and traditions of previous generations.
The Components of a Mangalsutra
The mangalsutra, although it seems simple, there is a lot of thought that goes into designing one.
- A mangalsutra usually has black beads along with gold in it. The importance of the black beads in mangalsutra is that it signifies a bond between Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. Both are considered to be some of the most powerful deities in the Hindu religion. The black beads symbolise Lord Shiva and the gold in the mangalsutra symbolises goddess Parvati. The sacred thread lies incomplete without these two elements in it.
- The use of gold in the mangalsutra is thought to bring good fortune to the marriage and the couple. The gold used in it is also believed to have spiritual powers, and it is believed to protect the couple from evil spirits and negative energy. Gold is also a symbol of immortality, and it is believed that the mangalsutra will bring eternal love and happiness to the couple.
- Furthermore, gold is considered to be a very pure and auspicious metal. It is believed that the mangalsutra, being made of gold, will bring purity, auspiciousness and good luck to the married couple.
- The beads in the mangalsutra denote the different forms of energies like air, water, Earth and Fire and are said to protect the couple from the evil energies of the world.
While the mangalsutra continues to hold significant cultural and religious importance in India, its design and style have evolved over time to meet changing fashion trends. Modern designs incorporate diamonds, other gemstones, and different materials, while still retaining the traditional significance of the same.
Why is Gold used in Mangalsutra?
In addition to its cultural and religious significance, gold is also a practical choice forthe Mangalsutra. Apart from religious beliefs, gold does have a lot of benefits otherwise.
- Gold is a very durable metal, and it is resistant to tarnishing and corrosion. This means that the Mangalsutra will last for a long time and will continue to look beautiful and new even after many years of wear.
- It’s also a flexible metal and can be shaped and moulded into various designs, which makes it possible for the it to be made in various styles and designs. It can be simple and elegant, or it can be more elaborate and ornate, depending on the couple’s preference.
- In addition to the above-mentioned reasons, gold is also an investment. Because gold prices tend to rise over time, it is a good investment option for couples. They can sell their Mangalsutra in the future if they need money.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Mangalsutra is one of the most important and sacred symbol of marriage in Indian culture. It is typically made out of gold. Gold is considered a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good luck, and it is also believed to have spiritual powers.
The structure and components of this holy thread has a wide place in religious history and signals the sacred bond between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Beyond the mangalsutra’s religious importance, it is made out of gold as it is a practical choice considering its durability, resistance to tarnishing and corrosion, and its ability to be shaped and moulded into various designs. Furthermore, it is a good investment option.
We hope this article helped you dive deeper into the intricacies of the sacred holy thread and understand its significance in Indian Weddings.