Gounder Thali

Gounder is the name of a caste used by various communities originating in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The Gounder “Thali” is a mark of respect, pure love and dignity which is presented to the wife by her husband during the divine hour of the marriage day.

Here is a complete breakdown of the south Indian Gounder bridal jewellery -

• Thali or Mangala naan - Mangala naan literally means an auspicious ornament given to the bride by the groom during a “Muhuratham” after it has received blessings from all the elderly wedding attendants.

• Netri Pattai (a distinctive Matha Patti) - 3 or 4 tiered bands of beads tied on the bride's forehead. It attractively defines the structure of the forehead.

• Mattal Jhimki (earrings) -They are traditional earrings of Gounder brides. The word ‘Jhumki’ defines the traditional bell-shaped earring design of India. The design consists of hanging decorative types of elements.

• Layered necklaces - A Layered necklace is an article that comprises an array of accessories worn around the bride’s neck. Necklaces may have been one of the traditional types of ornaments worn by Gounder brides. Layered necklaces are commonly made of precious metals and stones.

• Heavy bangles - Bangles are made from stiff metals like gold, platinum, diamond or wood, glass or plastic. They are traditional Indian forms of ornaments worn mostly by women. It is common to see a Gounder bride wearing metal bangles at her wedding.

• Rings - A ring is a round band, usually made of metals like gold, diamond, platinum. A Wedding Ring plays a major role in the Gounder marriage occasion. The ring finger is the fourth finger of a human hand. This finger is most commonly associated with wedding symbolism.

• Anklets - Anklets are one of the traditional ornaments, usually made of metals like gold, platinum, diamond, Silver, etc.. It is common to see a Gounder bride wearing metal anklets at her wedding.