TIMELESS TEMPLE TREASURES

The contemporary bride is rediscovering the grandeur of temple jewellery as she embraces legacy designs. Brides Today delves deep into the motifs, craftsmanship and inspirations that make this unique style endure.

- By ANKITA MALHOTRA

In India, gold jewellery isn't merely worn — it is inherited, cherished, and passed down the family like a quiet blessing. A grandmother's wedding necklace travelling through generations to rest on a modern bride's shoulders becomes a story in itself. Across royal households and traditional families, temple jewellery pieces are handed down generation after generation — worn at weddings, festivals and occasions that mark rites of passage — making them some of the most enduring heirlooms in Indian culture.

Long before the style became a bride's favourite, temple jewellery had a rather fascinating history. Dating back to the 9th-16th centuries, the Chola, Pandya, and Vijayanagara period, these jewels were presented as sacred offerings to idols in temples. Artisans would sculpt intricate ornaments using gold and precious gemstones to adorn Gods and Goddesses like Lakshmi, Shiva, and Parvati.

While the Chola period emphasised intricate gold necklaces and pendants inspired by deities, the Pandya designs leaned more towards floral motifs and layered pieces. In contrast, Vijayanagara temple jewellery paid attention to temple arches and filigree work. Next, as temple rituals flourished, the designs found their way to dancers, who wore such pieces for their performances.

With the passage of time, temple jewellery slowly crept into the lives of aficionados with a penchant for history and love for artisanal accessories. Today’s contemporary brides are embracing these pieces for their unique identity.