Anklets: The Artistic Accessory Of The Ages
Wherever you travel in India, the jingling sounds of the anklets ringing across one’s home are considered a symbol of prosperity. Anklets hold that kind of importance in the cultural lifestyle of our country.
Anklets, also called payals, are draped on one’s ankle, and they add that quintessential sparkle to every Indian girl and woman’s footsteps. At Kushal’s, we carry a variety of payals to cater to the varied tastes of our customers.
Anklets: Their Place In History and Culture
The history of anklets dates back to ancient civilizations. They were worn as a symbol of status by royals and commoners alike and the materials used to make the anklets defined their position in the society. Beads, iron, leather, gold and silver were some of the common materials used to make anklets in the pages of history.
Historically, anklets were worn by both men and women with designs varying from delicate chains for a feminine charm to sturdy styles to denote strength and power.
In Indian culture, anklets for women are worn as part of traditional attire and often signify marital status or cultural identity. Indian tribes have their own versions of anklets that tie them to their tribal heritage.
Materials and Craftsmanship: The Current Trends
Though women anklets started off with heavier designs, the currently popular trends are simplistic designs to suit the everyday grind or as a fashionable addition to one’s personal style.
These are some of the Payal styles Kushal’s Fashion Jewellery carries at the moment:
- Heavy Chain Styles: Traditional motifs and artistic patterns are the highlight of this style. Suitable to be worn during celebrations and festivities, these styles pair well with sarees and kurta sets.
- Beaded Styles: A step up from chain anklets, beaded styles carry a certain visual appeal that sets the wearer apart from the rest. These designs are versatile and have the potential to be styled in a plethora of ways.
- Contemporary Styles: Whether you are a working professional or need an accessory to amp up your casual style, contemporary styles are the wearer’s best bet.
- Conventionally, payals come in pairs, but keeping up with the trends, Kushal’s Fashion Jewellery also carries single anklets that can be worn on one ankle alone as a style statement.
Symbolism and Usage
Anklets from India come in various shapes and forms depending on the region they are influenced by. Called regionally by various names as jhanjhar, nupur, gejjelu, pattilu and more, Indian anklets are sometimes a symbol of good fortune and some other times, a token of femininity.
- Black Thread Payals: Seen as an accessory to ward off the evil eye and protect the wearer, black thread payals are worn by infants and adults following the cultural beliefs of India.
- Payal & It’s Connect To Art: For classical dancers, particularly in Indian classical dance disciplines like Kathak, Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, anklets with bells (ghungroo or gejje) are considered sacred and they add rhythm and depth to the dancer’s movements and their charisma.
Modern Trends and Popularity
In recent years, anklets have made a sort of comeback into mainstream fashion. Adapted by various top brands into their collections, minimal anklets are all the rage and feature in the favorites of a lot of influencers and celebrities.
- Charm Anklets: Anklets or ankle bracelet that carry dainty charms or motifs are a staple for today’s fashion girls.
- Stacked Anklets: Following the maximalistic/bohemian vibe, stacking various anklets can add a dash of rule-breaking charm to one’s style.
A Peek Into Kushal’s Payal Curation
At Kushal’s, we have an eclectic mix of payal designs to suit women of every age and style.
From gold to silver finish, traditional to modern, Kushal's has a vast selection of payals and toe rings for every occasion. Embellishments like zircons, stones and beads are our bestsellers, allowing the customers to experiment with their style.
If you are on the lookout to add something special to your jewelry box today, head over to Kushal’s Fashion Jewellery payals section today!
Frequently Asked Question
What does an anklet mean?
Anklets are accessories worn around one’s anklets. Worn every day or for special occasions, anklets are a part of the traditional Indian jewelry look. They are known for their delicate charm and intricate craftsmanship.
What does payal symbolize?
Payals are a symbol of prosperity and spirituality in Indian culture. Worn by married and unmarried women alike, payals today are more than just a reflection of our heritage but a beacon of self-expression in the fashion world.
Why do females wear anklets?
Married women often wear anklets to represent their traditions or to enhance their feminine charm. Young women wear anklets as a contemporary fashion statement that reflects their taste.
What does an anklet signify?
Anklets can mean many things depending on the cultural context of the wearer. They are considered a symbol of beauty, fortune, protection, and more.
According to the lore, wearing them on the left leg can enhance the wisdom and healing abilities of the wearer.
