Bajuband jewellery, also known as armlets, holds a special place in traditional Indian adornments. Worn around the upper arm, the bajuband adds a touch of regal elegance to any attire, especially for weddings and cultural celebrations. These exquisite pieces of jewellery have been cherished for centuries, symbolizing femininity, strength, and heritage.
In addition to bajuband jewellery, traditional accessories like maang tikkas and sheeshphool jewellery complete a bride’s or festive ensemble, enhancing her beauty with intricate designs and historical charm. Let’s explore the world of these timeless adornments.
The Bajuband: A Regal Armlet
The bajuband is often worn by brides or during cultural festivities to complement the richness of traditional outfits like sarees, lehengas, and anarkalis. This elegant armlet draws attention to the arms and adds a regal touch to the wearer’s overall look. Historically, bajuband jewellery was worn by both men and women, especially by royalty, as a sign of wealth and power.
Today, the bajuband has evolved to suit modern tastes while still retaining its classic appeal. From sleek, minimalist designs to heavily embellished pieces adorned with gemstones, bajuband jewellery offers versatility to match any occasion.
Styles of Bajuband Jewellery
Traditional Bajuband: These designs are inspired by historical motifs and often feature intricate patterns, floral designs, and religious symbols. Traditional bajuband jewellery is typically worn by brides and is crafted from gold, silver, or kundan, making it a perfect accessory for weddings and traditional ceremonies.
Modern Bajuband: In recent years, contemporary designs of the bajuband have emerged, catering to younger women who prefer lighter, simpler accessories. These modern bajubands may be crafted from silver or other metals, with subtle gemstone accents, making them suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
Gemstone-Studded Bajuband: Many bajubands are adorned with precious and semi-precious stones like emeralds, rubies, pearls, and diamonds. These statement pieces add a burst of color and luxury to bridal attire, enhancing the overall look of the outfit.
Maang Tikka: A Stunning Forehead Ornament
The maang tikka is another essential piece of jewellery often worn by brides and women during special occasions. This forehead accessory is placed in the center parting of the hair and falls gracefully over the forehead, adding a sense of beauty and elegance to the wearer’s face. Traditionally, maang tikkas were a part of bridal jewellery sets, symbolizing the union of two souls, but today they are worn for various festive occasions as well.
Types of Maang Tikka Jewellery
Single Chain Maang Tikka: The most common design, this maang tikka has a single chain that sits in the hair parting, with a decorative pendant that rests on the forehead. It can be simple or heavily embellished, depending on the wearer’s preference.
Double Chain Maang Tikka: This variation features two chains that drape along the hair parting, offering a more elaborate look. It’s perfect for grand events like weddings and adds a royal touch to any bridal attire.
Kundan Maang Tikka: Crafted from kundan stones, this design is highly popular for bridal wear due to its intricate craftsmanship and dazzling appearance. Kundan maang tikkas pair well with kundan necklaces and earrings, creating a coordinated, stunning look.
Sheeshphool Jewellery: An Ornate Headpiece
One of the most elaborate and striking traditional headpieces is sheeshphool jewellery. The sheeshphool is a complete head ornament that wraps around the head like a crown, adorned with detailed chains, gems, and a central tikka. This accessory is predominantly worn by brides to create a regal and majestic appearance, reminiscent of ancient queens and princesses.
Styling Sheeshphool Jewellery
Bridal Wear: Sheeshphool jewellery is a favorite for bridal attire, especially in traditional Indian weddings. The headpiece, along with the maang tikka, frames the face beautifully, enhancing the bride's overall look. When paired with kundan or antique jewellery sets, the sheeshphool creates an unforgettable bridal aesthetic.
Festive Celebrations: While the sheeshphool is often associated with bridal wear, it can also be worn for cultural festivals like Navratri or Diwali. In these settings, a simpler version of the sheeshphool adds a touch of grandeur to the festive outfit.
How to Style Bajuband Jewellery with Maang Tikka and Sheeshphool
When it comes to styling traditional jewellery like bajuband, maang tikka, and sheeshphool, it’s essential to strike a balance between the pieces to avoid overwhelming the look.
Bridal Attire: For brides, wearing all three – bajuband, maang tikka, and sheeshphool – creates a cohesive and regal look. The bajuband adds detail to the arms, while the maang tikka and sheeshphool jewellery frame the face and head, creating an elaborate and stunning bridal ensemble. Pair these with a bridal lehenga or saree in rich fabrics like silk or brocade for a truly royal appearance.
Festive Wear: During festivals, you can mix and match these accessories for a more toned-down look. For instance, pair a maang tikka with a modern bajuband for an elegant yet festive appearance. Alternatively, a simple sheeshphool with a bajuband and minimal jewellery can create a balanced and graceful outfit.
Minimalist Look: For those who prefer a minimalist style, a delicate bajuband paired with a simple maang tikka is a perfect combination. Opt for silver or gemstone designs for a contemporary twist.
Conclusion
Bajuband jewellery, along with maang tikkas and sheeshphool jewellery, represents the elegance and cultural richness of traditional Indian accessories. Whether you’re a bride looking to complete your wedding look or simply want to add a touch of tradition to your festive attire, these pieces offer versatility and timeless beauty. Combining these accessories creates a regal and graceful appearance, ensuring that the wearer stands out with sophistication and style.