Significance of Choora (Bangles)

Wearing bangles during and after a wedding for a few weeks is a ritual, not everyone believes in it but it known to be religious. A bangle is one of the most important ornament that some Indian women wear. For married women, bangles hold a special significance as they are a sign of 'just married'. Bangles are traditionally a part of weddings, it is mandatory for brides to wear bangles made of glass, gold or other metals as they signify the long life of husband. They also signify good fortune and prosperity; traditionally breaking of the bridal glass is considered inauspicious. People in different states of the country call them different names. But, they have equal importance in Indian wedding tradition. Ordinarily, the maternal family bring gifts, which is referred to as Naanki Shak. Historically, the maternal uncle would choose the bride or groom’s wedding Outfit. They would also buy clothes for that paternal family also, but the most important purchase is Bridal Chura. This is often a dwindling tradition.If it's a girl’s wedding; the following big aspect of the night is the Chura wedding ceremony. This is when this maternal uncles will place wedding bangles (choora) about the bride by dipping them inside a milk and water concoction first. This is followed by adding coconut-shaped decorations that hang coming from a bangle or kara. Within this ceremony, the maternal aunts will even gather around and support the uncles in positioning the bangles on.