Jewellery has always been an integral part of Indian culture. From signifying traditional relevance to accentuating one's appearance, ornaments are more than beads and metal. Each has its history. For example, jhumkas, a go-to earring for festive and wedding seasons, is believed to have originated during the Chola dynasty, around 300 BCE. The diverse Indian landscape has metamorphosed these accessories into more than just objects. Today, they serve as the identity of individuals and states alike.
As someone who hails from Uttarakhand, my love for jewellery is synonymous with nath and galobandh, trinkets that distinguish a Pahadi bride from a non-Pahadi. These beautifully carved jewels are rooted in a regional blend representing the cultural practices of Garhwalis, Bhotiyas, Kumaonis, Jaunsaris—the many communities of Uttarakhand. Take a look at some of these traditional accessories from the Himalayan state, playing up its ethnic identity for generations: