The term 'Solah Shringar' literally translates to "Sixteen Adornments." It is a comprehensive process that involves sixteen essential steps for beautifying a woman from head to toe. This ritual provides detailed guidelines for bridal makeup, including the use of accessories and ornaments. Solah Shringar is a traditional practice passed down through ancient culture, designed to enhance a woman's beauty and bestow upon her the gifts of grace.
What Are The 16 Adornments Or Solah Shringar
Gajra: A string of flowers, usually made of jasmine, worn in the hair bun and braid.
Mang-Tikka: A headpiece, often made of gold, silver, and precious stones, worn in the center parting of the hair. It may have a chain that follows the hairline.
Sindoor: A red powder applied to the center parting of the bride's hair, symbolizing marital status.
Bindi: A red dot on the forehead, representing dedication to the marital relationship.
Anjana or Kajal: Black eyeliner to accentuate the bride's eyes.
Nose Ring (Nath): Worn on the left nostril, often adorned with pearls and gems, signifying marital status.
Ear Ring, Karn Phool or Jhoomars: Elaborate earrings that may hang from the earlobe or cover the entire ear.
Necklace, Haar, Mangal Sutra: Different types of necklaces, including the mangalsutra, signifying marital commitment.
Armbands, Baaju-band or Armlets: Worn on the upper arm and often set with pearls or diamonds.
Bangles, Bracelets: Considered a visible sign of marriage, they may be made of various materials.
Mehndi or Henna: The hands and feet are adorned with intricate henna designs.
Rings and Hathphool: The bride wears rings on her fingers, connected to a central flower or medallion called Hathphool.
Aarsi: A thumb ring, sometimes with a mirror, enabling the bride to see herself and her partner during the wedding rituals.
Waistband: A decorative belt worn around the waist, often studded with gems.
Anklets or Payal: Silver chains with small bells attached, worn on both feet, creating a pleasant sound as the bride walks.
Toe Ring or Bichuas: Worn on the second toe of the left foot, these rings may have bells and symbolize marriage.
Significance Of Solah Shringar:
According to Hindu mythology, the "sixteen shringars" correspond to the sixteen phases of the moon, which are linked to a woman's menstrual cycle. Solah Shringar is said to counteract any negative effects of this cycle.
The word "Shringar" is derived from 'Shri,' which means "Lakshmi," the goddess of wealth, beauty, luck, and prosperity. It is particularly associated with Indian weddings, marking a significant transition into womanhood for the bride.
In India, when elderly people do not know the name of a new bride, they refer to her as "Lakshmi," symbolizing her role in bringing wealth and prosperity to the new family. Apart from weddings, Solah Shringar is also practiced during major festivals and religious events like Karwa Chauth. In the past, it was used to adorn queens when they appeared in public or when kings returned from extended battles.