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Chuddo ceremony

Chuddo ceremony

The Chuddo ceremony holds an important place in Goan weddings as it marks the beginning of the coming celebrations. This traditional ritual centres around adorning the bride with a set of glass bangles called 'chuddo,' each carrying symbolic meanings that reflect married life and womanhood in Goan culture. Typically hosted at the bride's uncle's home, this ceremony is chosen for its significance and close family ties. During the Chuddo ceremony, a local bangle seller known as the volar or kankonkar is invited to place these bangles on the brides' wrists. This individual plays a role in the community, often being a familiar presence who has served multiple families over generations. Family members and close friends join in taking this opportunity to acquire some bangles for themselves. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with blessings offered through gifts placed on a tray near the seller. Traditional Goan music and dances fill the air, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity.

Cultural Significance

The Chuddo ceremony is important in Goan weddings, especially because of the symbolism of bangles as a vital bridal accessory. These bangles go beyond decorations, serving as a representation of the bride's transition into married life. Both Hindus and Christians in Goa embrace this tradition, underscoring its significance.

For women in Goa, bangles serve as a reminder of their marital commitment and associated duties. The ritual of breaking these bangles upon the husband's passing signifies the end of the union. The colours of the bangles carry meanings that symbolise facets of married life.

While the number and hues of bangles may vary across villages, they typically embody themes like luck, prosperity and marital happiness. Generally, brides wear eight to nine bangles on their right wrist and seven to eight bangles on their left wrist, each set chosen for its symbolic value. 

During the Chuddo ceremony, the colours of the bride's bangles convey significance, reflecting different aspects of marriage and traditional beliefs. Red bangles symbolise love and passion, which are crucial for married life. Green bangles represent fertility and new beginnings, symbolising the growth and prosperity the bride brings to her family. Blue bangles, not as common, are thought to bring peace and wisdom, ensuring a marital bond. Yellow bangles stand for joy and optimism, bringing positivity into the bride's life.

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Fashioning Tradition

The Chuddo ceremony is more than about the bangles; it is also a celebration of Goan bridal fashion. The attire chosen by the bride for this occasion reflects both her roots and personal taste. Traditionally, brides opt for outfits like sarees or salwar kameez in auspicious shades like red, green or yellow, which are believed to bring luck and prosperity to their new journey.

Popular choices for the Chuddo ceremony include sarees adorned with embroidery and decorations that pay homage to Goa's textile heritage.

The materials commonly used are often luxurious, like silk or brocade, to add a touch of sophistication to the bride's look. The whole ensemble is enhanced by makeup and traditional hairstyles, ensuring the bride shines as the point of attention. Attendees at the Chuddo ceremony also dress in their best traditional clothes to honour the event. Women usually wear sarees or salwar kameez while men prefer kurtas or formal suits. 

Jewellery & Accessories

Jewellery and accessories play a role in elevating the bride’s appearance during the Chuddo ceremony. In addition to bangles, the bride adorns herself with a variety of jewellery that complement her attire. These may include necklaces, earrings, and hair accessories typically made from gold and embellished with gemstones.

A standard jewellery set for the Chuddo ceremony could consist of a gold necklace paired with matching earrings and a maang tikka worn on the forehead. These items are cherished family heirlooms passed down through generations, blending value with their aesthetic charm.

Image Credits

Goa Wedding Traditionals | Weddings Da Goa | Pinterest | Instagram | Wedding Wire | Weddingsdore | Utsav Pediya | Weddings de Goa | It's Goa