The Art of Meenakari — India's Painted Jewellery
Discover the 500-year-old tradition of Meenakari enamel work that transforms gold into living paintings.
Few pieces of jewellery announce themselves as beautifully as the Payal. That soft, musical jingle has been part of Indian culture for at least 4,000 years, and its meaning has evolved fascinatingly over time.
Ancient Origins
Archaeological findings at Mohenjo-daro — the ancient Indus Valley civilisation — include anklets dating to 2500 BCE. These early pieces were simple silver bands, evidence that ankle adornment is one of humanity's oldest jewellery traditions.
Symbol of Marital Status
In many Indian traditions, married women wear silver anklets as a symbol of their status. The sound of the Payal was considered auspicious — announcing the arrival of the lady of the house. Gold anklets were traditionally avoided by married women as gold is associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and wearing it on the feet was considered disrespectful.
Classical Dance
Ghungroo — the larger, bell-laden anklets worn by classical dancers — are an evolution of the Payal. In Bharatanatyam and Kathak, the rhythm of the Ghungroo becomes an instrument in itself.
