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Tehri Nath
The Tehri Nath, a quintessential part of wedding ceremonies in Uttarakhand, is a ritual that has endured through generations in the Garhwal community. The tradition of the maternal uncle gifting the bride a gold nose ring, known as Nath or Nathuli, on the wedding day, is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu traditions. This act of love and gratitude, expressed through the gift of a Tehri Nath, continues to this day. Every bride in Uttarakhand, whether adorned with gold or silver jewellery, must wear a Nath on her wedding day. The big gold ring has intricate designs, with or without beads, rubies, and pearls. It also has a chain attached to the ear or hair. However, since the traditional gold nath is large and heavy, some modern brides opt for smaller and lighter versions during the wedding ceremony. Furthermore, contemporary patterns lend a new look to the traditional floral, moon, palkhi, peacock, and paisley designs.
Cultural Significance
The Tehri Nath ceremony in Uttarakhand is a significant tradition that symbolises marital status, family bonds, and cultural values. Held at the start of the Uttarakhand's wedding day, it marks the bride’s transition from singlehood to married life. During the ceremony, the maternal uncle gifts the bride her Tehri Nath, a treasured nose ring, symbolising his strong bond with her and the family.
A priest blesses the bride with mantras for a prosperous marriage. The Tehri Nath ceremony, rooted in ancient Hindu Vedic traditions, underscores Uttarakhand’s rich cultural heritage and enduring customs.
Fashioning Tradition
The Tehri Nath ceremony in Uttarakhand beautifully showcases tradition and elegance. The bride, dressed in a traditional ghagri (ankle-length skirt) and angra (full-sleeved shirt), exudes grace, while the pichora or rangwali, a hand-made polka-dotted chunni, completes her look. Made from auspicious red and saffron chikan fabric, the pichora features designs like the swastika, sun, moon, conch, and bells, symbolising prosperity, fertility, and marital bliss. Although modern brides often choose designer ghagra cholis or sarees with embellishments, these traditional garments remain integral to Uttarakhand weddings.
The groom’s attire is equally significant. He typically wears a kurta, pyjama or sherwani paired with a red, pink, or white turban. In the Kumaon region, grooms often wear a Mukut (crown) on their forehead. These traditional outfits and accessories reflect the importance of the Tehri Nath ceremony, highlighting the cultural richness and solemnity of the occasion while complementing the bride’s elegant ensemble.
Jewellery & Accessories
The bride adorns herself with elaborate jewellery, including Galobandh (necklace), Pahunchi (bracelet), Nath (nose ring), Kaan Balis (dangling earrings), and Maangtikka (forehead ornament). Galobandh is a traditional choker with intricately designed square gold pieces embedded in red cloth. Pahunchi is a bracelet usually made of gold or silver beads attached to an auspicious red cloth base. Likewise, the Tehri Nath, or Nath, is a nose accessory with a chain containing beads, pearls or rubies, and motifs of flowers, leaves, and peacocks. The Kaanbali, Kaanphool, and Kaantikka are usually large flower-shaped earrings.
On the other hand, grooms in Uttarakhand are simply dressed. Their jewellery consists primarily of gold Anguthi (ring) and Mala (necklace). However, modern grooms opt for more elaborate pieces in gold or Kundan to complement the bride’s look. Lastly, guests typically wear traditional jewellery inspired by the region’s beauty.
Image Credits
Springer Link | Joshi 1 | Utterakhand Stories | Mangal Parinay | Facebook 1 | Youtube | Uttrakhandi | Pinterest | Best Nathuli Designs | Joshi