- Avarna Jain,
Chairperson RPSG Lifestyle Media
Did You Know That Sarpech Could Only Be Worn By Royals In Ancient India?
Lucky for all the grooms, anyone can embrace Sarpech and Kalgi today!
Kalgi and SarpechChristie's and Sotheby's
The Sarpech has long held a prominent position when it comes to traditional jewellery for men. While bejewelled brooches and cufflinks have their moments every now and then, the Sarpech is more of a classic that will always remain relevant. The word ‘Sarpech’ originates from the Persian words ‘Sar’, which translates to ‘head’, and ‘Pech’, which translates to ‘screw’—it is essentially a jewellery piece which is fixed onto the head.
Vicky Kaushal wearing a Kalgi at his weddingInstagram/Katrina Kaif
The Sarpech, an ornament worn on the front of a turban, was primarily worn by Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim princes. While the Sarpech originated before the Mughal Era, and a similar turban ornament called Kalgi would also be worn by Rajput princes pre-Mughal rule, Mughal Emperors, particularly Akbar popularised the ornament. In Ancient India, the Sarpech was seen as a symbol of power, status, and wealth, and was worn only by royalty—emporers, princes, and high ranking individuals.
Ranbir Kapoor wearing a Kalgi at his weddingInstagram/Alia Bhatt
The design of the Sarpech has also seen an evolution. Initially, the Sarpech was a vertical ornament, with a feather attached on top of it, and was worn either at the center or on the side of the turban. All throughout the Mughal Era, wearing a Sarpech was strictly reserved only for royalty, and commoners could not wear it. So much so, that there were laws put in place regarding who could legally wear a Sarpech. However, this changed with British rule. With the British Raj the Serpech slowly began to be worn by commoners as a part of their ceremonial looks.
Sidharth Malhotra wearing a Kalgi at his weddingInstagram/Kiara Advani
Lucky for grooms today, the Sarpech is no longer seen as a symbol of wealth or social status, and can be worn by anyone. Indian grooms have embraced the Sarpech with open arms, and it still remains one of the most exquisite ornaments for men. Today, the Sarpech comes in all kinds of styles—whether you like minimalism or maximalism, whether you prefer experimenting or keeping it classic, there is something for every groom. In terms of craftsmanship, we get Sarpech in Gold, Polki, Meenakari, Rubies, Emeralds and Pearls.
Dear grooms, whether you go for a big, chunky, straight-out-of-a-Period-drama Sarpech, or a dainty Kalgi, we highly would highly advice you to embrace the turban jewels on your wedding!
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