In Hindu religion in India, it is customary for women to wear Mangalsutra around their neck after marriage. But do you know why women wear Mangalsutra after marriage and where it first started. Today we will tell you when Mangalsutra was started and in how many countries women wear Mangalsutra.
Where did it start?
Let us tell you that Mangalsutra is considered the protective shield of husband and wife. Apart from this, the history of Mangalsutra is mentioned in Adi Guru Shankaracharya’s book ‘Soundarya Lahari’ Also available in. According to historians, the tradition of wearing Mangalsutra started in the sixth century. Evidence of Mangalsutra has also been found in the excavation of Mohenjodaro. Wearing Mangalsutra first started in South India. After this, gradually this custom became prevalent not only in India but also in other countries. According to the information, in Tamil Nadu it is called Thali or Thiru Mangalyam. Whereas in North India it is called Mangalsutra.
Meaning of Mangalsutra?
Mangalsutra is made up of two words Mangal and Sutra. ‘Mars’ means sacred and ‘formula’ Means sacred necklace. Magalsutra is considered to be the biggest symbol of marital life in Hindu religion. However, its form also changes in different areas. At some places, gold, white or red beads are also added to the Mangalsutra. Apart from Hindus in India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Pakistan, non-Hindu people like Syrian Christians also wear Mangalsutra. However, there are many communities in India in which Mangalsutra is not worn. Instead other marital symbols are worn. In large parts of North India, married women wear nettles, glass bangles and necklaces around their necks. Indian jewelery historian Dr. Usha Balakrishnan told the media that the practice of making the bride wear Mangalsutra after marriage is a modern concept, which has become possible due to the marketing strategies of businesses. However, she also tells that Adi Shankaracharya has also explained the importance of Mangalsutra in Soundarya Lahari. According to Hindu tradition, Mangalsutra is worn for the long life of the husband.
Time to remove Mangalsutra?
In ancient times, bridal jewelery was associated with old age. And also served as financial security when she became a widow. Dr. Balakrishnan and Meera Sushil Kumar in their book ‘Indian Jewellery: The Dance of the Peacock’ It is written that historically in India, jewelery was an auspicious symbol of marital life. They were lowered only when she became a widow or when she gave up worldly attachments. It is written in the book about Atharveda that the marriage ceremony used to end with the father of the bride saying that I hand over this girl adorned with gold ornaments to you. She tells that Mangalsutra was considered as an auspicious thread. On auspicious occasions, a thread soaked in turmeric or kumkum is tied on the pulse points of the body such as the neck or wrist.
Beliefs of Mangalsutra
Mangalsutra Different areas have their own beliefs regarding this. It is believed that the black pearls present in it are the form of Lord Shiva and the gold is related to Mother Parvati. It is believed that there are 9 beads in Mangalsutra. These represent nine forms of Maa Durga. These 9 beads are also considered as symbols of earth, water, air and fire. Mangalsutra is one of the 16 adornments of women.
