Kashmiri Bridal Jewelry
The traditional jewelry worn by Kashmiri Brides is known for its intricate craftsmanship and symbolic significance.
Traditional attire
Dejhoor: The Bridal ornament
The Dejhoor is worn by Kashmiri Pandit brides and has significance similar to Mangalsutra to denote matrimony. However, while a woman has to remove her Mangalsutra when her husband passes away, a Kashmiri woman continues to wear Dejhoor all her life. It is worn at the top end of the ear cartilage, and consists of a chain (ath) and a hexagon shaped ornament (athoor). It features a central dot representing Shiva and Shakti.
The Dejhoor is typically gifted by the groom’s family during the wedding ceremony, and is considered a cherished heirloom that may be passed down through generations.
Kaskar: Traditional Bangles
Kaskars are thick golden bangles, which the bride wears along with other bangles and bracelets.
Gunus bracelet
Gunus: Traditional Bracelet
The Gunus bracelet is a thick gold or silver bangle with a snake or lion head on each end. It's a traditional piece of jewelry that's influenced by animals.
Jhumkas: Bell-Shaped Earrings
The Jhumkas are bell-shaped earrings traditionally made of gold and feature intricate designs, often embellished with gemstones or pearls. These are worn by women during weddings, festivals, and other significant events, and their distinctive shape makes them stand out in Kashmiri Hindu jewelry.
These earrings are often paired with a Tikka (forehead ornament) for brides, adding a regal touch to the wedding look.
Targa: Headscarf
Targa is the typical headscarf worn by Kashmiri Pandit women. Nowadays, it is worn on the bride's head as a bridal gear on her wedding day.