Why are Bengali White Bangles Significant for Women?

For decades, women have been wearing traditional white bangles while believing them to have ritualistic significance. Bengali women live and breathe traditions which in turn perpetuates certain myths. Similarly, the shankha too holds specific importance in the Bengali culture which is worn by women since the time of their marriage. 
 

The bangles of the ancient days :-

While Indians follow their roots quite dedicatedly, wearing Bengali white bangles has been an integral part of the wedding culture for generations. Derived from the Hindi word bangri, bangles in the Bengali culture signify the power preserved by the Indian women. Its history goes back to an ancient excavation of Mohenjo-Daro called ‘the Dancing Girl’ whose arm was entirely covered in bangles. From then onwards, it became an important Bengali accessory epitomizing antiquity and universality. Made from a wide range of elements like brass, terracotta, gold, silver, bronze, and glass, these bangles are replicated with some innovative designs and studded stones. 
 

History :-

Back in the day, farmers accumulated conch shells to present them to their wives. After a while, they began to powder the conch shells and make build bangles out of them. Slowly they began to be adorned by married women without which the ceremony remained incomplete. It was also ensured that the bangles do not break during the marriage time to avoid any forthcoming tragedy.

The shankha is also a memoir of the Mughal times when they were made up of ivory, which in the modern times, is available with a

Symbolism 

 

Shankha represents-

• new beginning

• good health

• soaring prosperity

• minimal friction in between energies

• a happy and progressing married life

An integral marriage item:-

White bangles worn by Bengali women are an integral part of the Bengali/Hindu wedding custom. Considered as a bridal jewellary, it is deemed as a pivotal part of the bridal attire which completes her look. Also known as a ‘shringar’, these bangles are crafted with intricate designs which render any Bengali women her marital status.

Belonging to a part of a pre-wedding ritual, these white bangles are given to the girl by her mother, early in the morning, during the time of Dodhi Mangal. It is also believed to be the blessing of nature. It is also necessary that the bride handles it with care as it is very brittle.

However, widows are not allowed to wear bangles within many communities and Bengal is one of them. 
 

Conclusion:-

Modern women refuse to believe in such illogical customs and significances. Today, white shankha bangles are worn more like a style statement, keeping aside any reference to traditional prosperity. Although such bangles are worn in lesser numbers, their auspiciousness continues to reign our minds.