Bridal Shringar

Bridal Shringar is an age old ritual which Indian brides go through, it is known as the “Solah Shringar” which means sixteen adornments. This concept was originated during the vedic era when it was believed that the 16 phases of the moon had a negative effect on the woman’s menstrual cycle. Thats the reason behind 16 adornments, it nullifies the effect of the phases of moon and ofcourse bedecks the bride.

Over the years, the ritual has gone through many changes and has lost its originality. We share some of the 16 adornments in details to reveal the true rituals. The solah shringar goes like this, the brides hair is washed and then massaged with scented oil.

She is given a bath with a mixture of gram flour, turmeric powder, sandalwood powder and oil. This acts as a scrub and adds a glow to the skin.

The solah shringar starts only after this step is done. The 16 adornments comprise of bindi, sindoor, maang teeka, anjana, nath, haar, karn phool, mehendi, choodiyan, baajubandh, arsi, keshapasharachana, kamarbandh, payals and bichuas, ittar and the bridal dress.

Here we reveal some of the not so common solah shringars:

1) Anjana – Anjana is the application of kajal or kohl to make the brides eyes look mysterious and attractive. Kohl is applied to both the upper and lower eye lids and is worn by every bride across the country.

2) Karn phool – Ornate karn phools, known as earrings are worn. Usually the Indian bride wears three tier earrings known as “joomkhas’. Since they are heavy, they are held up with a gold chain that is pinned to the hair.

3) Keshapasharachana – It means a gorgeous hair do. Most Indian brides wear their hair in a jooda (bun) or in a long plait. The hairdo is then enhanced with streams of gajraas (fragrant flowers) or other hair accessories.