Kalyan Wiki
Kundal
'Kundal' is the name of a pair of curvy or round-shaped earrings that has mostly been popularized by Indian mythology. All men and women of ancient India used to find their fondness in accessorizing themselves with pairs of kundal earrings of different sizes and makes.
The word 'kundal' is coined in the Sanskrit language, and it means something that is curved in shape. Contemporary designers and ornament makers have drawn huge inspiration from our Indian mores, that promoted these beautiful ornaments among the masses to a great extent.
A typical kundal has two main parts- the curve-shaped part and the hook. The latter enables the earring to enter the earlobe while being connected to the curve-shaped part. From outside, a pair of kundal earrings can resemble any other pair of hoop or drop earrings, except that the dangling part is mostly round and with curves.
Kundals come in different curves and sizes. Ancient scriptures quote several types of kundal worn by the deities. While the Gods are believed to have worn 'Makarakar' (slightly cylindrical yet round-shaped) or 'Sarpakar' (snake-shaped) kundal, all the Goddesses are believed to have worn 'Shankakar' (conch shaped) or 'Patrakar' (leaf-shaped) kundal.
Kundal as a piece of jewellery, essentially owes its popularity to the character of Karna, the son of God Surya and Kunthi Devi, from the epic Mahabharata. Karna is believed to have been born with 'a pair of Kundal and Kavach' (Earrings Armour), a boon from his father, God Surya, that made him an immortal being. His pair of kundal earrings have been valiantly spoken about so much that the name Karna has become synonymous with kundals for most people in India.
The recognition of kundal earrings in the world jewellery scenario has grown far and wide over the years with numerous options available in terms of its make. While many imitation jewellery collections brag of affordable kundal designs, the most common ones are made with metals like Gold and Silver. These are often studded with precious stones and other embellishments. In some cases, danglers are added in the form of additional curves to elongate the size of the earrings. These are very popular in bridal jewellery and party collections.
