The Symbolism and Story Behind Temple Jewellery in Indian Weddings

A traditional form of jewellery with its roots deeply ingrained in the Southern part of India, temple jewellery is not just a piece of gold. Powerful, regal and spiritual, this piece of jewellery is a symbol that found its way back onto bridal trousseaus in the north and has been an unmissable part of a bride’s jewellery kit in the South of India. In a world of Indian weddings, where now brides look for more meaning in their wedding ensemble and just bling, temple jewellery tells a story of India’s heritage. From the shining antique gold to the intricate motifs of gods and goddesses and even mythical animals, every detail of the temple jewellery hides a rich history of its own. 

Dating back to the 9th century Chola dynasty, temple jewellery was crafted mainly to decorate the idols of the deities in South Indian Temples and in worship. Made in pure gold, these jewellery pieces later became a part of the ensemble of classical dancers and performers and were gradually embedded with different gemstones like rubies and emeralds, even pearls. Today, these jewellery pieces are celebrated for the craftsmanship that involved artisans using techniques like the lost wax casting that helped carve the motifs into gold.

What makes the temple jewellery stand out today is that it is not just about fashion but creates a bridge between heritage and personal meaning. These offer brides' versatility and allow them to style it not just on silk sarees but Banarasi gowns, lehengas and even minimal bridal looks. 

But what most people styling and wearing these timeless pieces of temple jewellery do not know is what the several motifs on them signify and what their connection to Indian weddings.

What Each Motif Signifies in Temple Jewellery

Goddess Lakshmi in Temple Jewellery:

The star of the jewellery, one that you will find on almost every piece of temple jewellery, the motif of Goddess Lakshmi is the most iconic figure. The motif symbolises the Hindu goddess of wealth, beauty and prosperity. 

Usually seated on a lotus, surrounded by elephants or Gaja Lakshmi, as most people know, she is believed to bless your new beginnings- your wedding- with abundance and blessings. You will most likely find this motif on long necklaces, a temple haar or a choker or even waistbands.

Elephants in Temple Jewellery:

A symbol of royalty and strength, elephants represent power, fertility and regal grace, especially the ones that you find showering water at Goddess Lakshmi. They complement the grandeur and royalty of Indian wedding and Indian rituals, making them perfect for brides who want to be the main characters, to channel the royal energy on their wedding day.

Peacock in Temple Jewellery:

India’s national bird on a piece of jewellery is reflective of the blend of beauty and purity. However, not just on temple jewellery, peacocks appear across several temple designs and other pieces of jewellery like gold bangles or most commonly, earrings. It is a symbol of beauty and divine protection, and for brides, it becomes a symbol of grace. 

The Yali in Temple Jewellery:

The mythical guardian, Yali, symbolises strength in the new brides. A creature that is part lion, part elephant and part horse, it is believed to protect and guard the brides against evil energies. It is most commonly found in the South Indian architecture along with the temple jewellery and creates a warrior-like energy.

The Kasu Mala in Temple Jewellery:

A coin necklace made of tiny gold coins that reflects the legacy in every coin. The kasu mala necklace is usually engraved with the images of deities, mostly Lakshmi. Each coin in the necklace is a symbol of wealth, abundance and tradition, and its craftsmanship of the necklace gives a dramatic effect as it cascades down the bride’s neck.

Lotus and Parrot in Temple Jewellery:

Lastly, the most common motif found on most jewellery pieces, along with the temple jewellery, the lotus is a symbol of purity and rebirth or the birth of a new phase in life. Lotus motifs are often found in pairs with Lakshmi or are carved singularly into chokers and Kamar bandhs, while the parrot is seen as a symbol of love, fidelity and sensuality. Associated with goddess Meenakshi, the parrot often appears on bangles or earrings to add a dramatic touch to the artful temple jewellery.

Therefore, temple jewellery is not just a new fashion trend but has been around for as long as we can remember, representing the rich cultural heritage of the country. A more personal symbol of love, luck and legacy, these jewellery pieces offer a timeless reminder of who you are.