For best prices and early deliveries, WhatsApp us at. 918488070070
Chura Ceremony
In Maharashtrian tradition, the Chura ceremony marks the beginning of a bride's journey to being a wife. Also known as the Chura Bharne, in this ritual, she receives a set of green glass bangles from her mother and other married women in the family. The green bangles, known as 'Hirva' in Maharashtra, are deeply ingrained in tradition and are always in odd numbers. They are worn with gold bangles called 'Patalya’, always in even numbers. This careful arrangement reflects the belief that the bride's married life will be equally filled with creativity, positivity, love, and prosperity. Green is a particularly auspicious colour in Maharashtrian culture. Many idols of goddesses in temples are decorated in green clothes and jewellery. The ‘Hirva’ green bangles, given by the bride’s family, represent the hopes for a happy and prosperous life for the newlywed couple. The ‘Patalya’ gold bangles, given by the groom’s parents as they welcome her into the family, are a symbol of their affection for the bride. Wearing this gold and green bangle set stands for life, creation, and fertility. The bride’s mother puts the Churas on her, and the bride must wear them for a month after her wedding. During the ceremony, the women sing Marathi folk and wedding songs. Maharashtra has a rich history of music that falls under the Hindustani classical music tradition. Powada and Lavani are the two most famous folk music schools, followed by different Bhajans, Kirtans, and Abhangas. Natya Sangeet is another popular semi-classical folk music, often accompanied by dance. Marathi wedding songs are equal parts upbeat and emotional, and they have been sung through the generations or have become popular through films and television. The tradition extends beyond the bride. A bangle maker is also invited to the ceremony, and the bride's friends and relatives also choose glass bangles for themselves. For married women, the green bangles are a symbol of marriage, while for unmarried women, the bangles stand for harmony and prosperity.
Cultural Significance
Across Indian culture, bangles are so much more than just jewellery. They are symbols of womanhood and marital status, much like Western wedding rings. Different coloured bangles represent different values. For instance, red bangles signify energy and prosperity, while yellow bangles are meant for happiness. White bangles represent new beginnings, and orange symbolises success. Silver bangles are worn for strength, and gold bangles are the ultimate symbol of fortune and prosperity.
While modern practices may have evolved, bangles remain deeply intertwined with marriage. In Maharashtrian weddings, green glass bangles have deep cultural, religious, and emotional significance. Green bangles are symbolic of health, luck, and prosperity for women. They also represent good fortune and fertility that lead to a happy married life. They are worn by married women for the safety and prosperity of their husbands.
Green is associated with health and growth. Wearing green bangles is believed to alleviate stress and evoke positive emotions. Besides creating a sense of mental calm, green bangles are thought to contribute to physical well-being and vitality. The colour has a connection to the heart chakra, making it symbolic of femininity, love, and compassion.
Elegant and culturally significant, green glass bangles and the Chura ceremony are integral to a Maharashtrian bride’s wedding journey. In some families, the green Chura are cherished heirlooms passed down through generations. They are given to the bride as a tangible reminder of her cultural heritage and family legacy. She may be entering the groom’s family, but she is still very much connected to her family.
Fashioning Tradition
For the Chura ceremony, a Maharashtrian bride wears a beautiful silk saree. One of the most popular choices is the Paithani saree, renowned for its vibrant colours, intricate designs, and luxurious silk fabric. It features exquisite motifs handwoven onto its broad pallu with gold brocade – an epitome of Maharashtrian craftsmanship.
Another traditional option is the Navari saree, a nine-yard garment draped in the unique Marathi style, creating a unique silhouette. These sarees come in rich jewel tones like red, green, and yellow and are often embellished with gold or silver threads. Besides sarees, the bride can also wear an embroidered lehenga set, an elegant anarkali set, or a draped sharara set.
Jewellery & Accessories
The bride can accessorise with traditional Maharashtrian jewellery to complement her ensemble. Apart from the green glass bangles, she is decked out in necklaces, earrings, armbands, and the ever-present moon-shaped Bindi.
Mohan Mala, a long necklace crafted from gold beads, and the stunning Rani Haar, a layered necklace made of pearl strings and a gem-encrusted pendant, are other popular options.
Image Credits
Wedding Photography | Studio Now | Shutter Stock | Ramit Batra | Instagram | Wedding Documentary | Ek Dum Desi | Ambar Jewels | Soven Amatya Photography