Significance of Gold in the lives of Indians
Introduction
It’s no secret that the relationship between gold and Indians is a revered one. Whether it’s the use of color in the fabrics or the precious metal itself, Indians have considered gold as the metal of Gods and royalty. For Indians, gold is one of the most auspicious colors and is not just an exquisite metal. The significance of gold has been woven into the Indian beliefs which is reflected in the religious books as well. The sentimental value of Indians towards gold is seen when Indians offer gold jewellery to new brides and new-born babies while golden chunnis and other attires are offered to Gods and Goddesses during religious festivities.
Indian bridal jewelry. (Idiva.com)
Origin and History
As per Hindu mythology, gold is considered as the soul of the world. According to the legend, in a gloomy and lifeless world, the creator produced water from his body and deposited a seed, which transformed into a golden egg as radiant as the sun. It was from this golden egg, the creator himself was born as Lord Brahma. He was then known as Hiranyagarbha – the one born of gold. Since its occurrence, gold is regarded as the seed of Agni (the God of Fire). Gold has always been considered as a sacred color, as a result, more often than not, gold adornments are worn for specific rituals and events.
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Importance of Golden Colour Across Various Parts of India
- South India
The love for gold cannot be better explained by the people residing in South India. Especially, the people from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are die-hard fans of gold, be it in the form of metal or fabric. Gold, both in color and in metal is one of the significant part of the Vishukkani (the new year of Kerala). Kanikkonna, a golden-yellow flower is used generously throughout the puja conducted during this festival. It is believed that Kanikkonna signifies the radiant sun which represents the eyes of Lord Vishnu and the gold coins are symbols of financial prosperity, traditional and divine wealth. When it comes to weddings, Kasavu sarees with intricate golden embroideries is a well-known bridal attire. The bride-to-be looks dazzling on her wedding day as her beautiful reflection filters across the pure golden color.
Kanikkonna: golden-yellow flowers. (Image: C1.staticflickr.com)
- Most Parts of India (North India, East India and West India)
There are various festivals and events celebrated in India, where we often come across the golden color. Dhanvantari Triodasi, the first day of Diwali which is often called as Dhanteras expresses a larger view on the significance of gold in India. On this day, people are seen purchasing utensils and golden jewellery. This devotion of Indians in buying gold on this particular day is credited to the fact that it is considered as an auspicious day to welcome wealth in their homes. This refers to the belief that on this day the concealed energy of Lord Vishnu will flow through Shri Laxami Devi‘s Surya nadi (the right channel of the Kundalini) and the channels will thus be activated. Hence, the emissions produced during the day are full of the fire element. These emissions are believed to spread all over the Universe and the color of the rays, eventually turning out to be golden which is regarded prosperous and healthy.
As golden color is an auspicious color it’s no surprise that brides-to-be shop for this color outfit. Another reason for this popular choice can be attributed to the fact that it reflects energy. As a result, we can often see that the bridal outfits, especially lehengas or sarees have exquisite karigari (patterns) made up of exclusive golden threads which is a perfect combination for the red or maroon fabric on which these designs are embellished.
How the Golden Colour is Ruling Fashion?
As Indians are eternally in love with golden color, this relation does not lag behind in terms of fashion as well. Let’s have a look at some of the outfits which the people in India mostly prefer in golden color.
- Lehenga Choli: One of the most certain ways to look your best during the festive season is by adding a bit of gold to your wardrobe. A simple golden lehenga choli will definitely set up the festive mood. Most of the designer lehenga cholis are available in the best combinations of red and gold. The attires in these hues will make every woman look elegant yet stylish.
A Red and Golden Art Silk Lehenga Choli with Dupatta. (Image: Utsavfashion.com)
- Kasavu Sarees: Whenever, the topic of kasavu sarees comes up, the first thing that strikes every fashionista’s mind is the color gold. As one of the most versatile color, it beautifully blends with other colors like peacock green, beige, white, yellow and sea green, to not only create a unique as well as a beautiful collection.
- Golden Bangles: The age-old tradition of wearing golden bangles in India is slowly becoming obsolete. But with the evolving fashion, now we can easily find a wide variety of golden bangles in numerous designs and styles. These bangles can be exquisitely complemented with any outfit.
Interesting Facts
- Golden color represents a symbol of success, achievement and triumph.
- In India, gold and jewelery expenses constitute between 30-50% of the total amount spent in a marriage.
- Gold gifted to the bride is called ‘stridhan’ and it is exclusively her property in her new house.
References
Categories: Cultural Connections