Introduction
Symbols are powerful expressions of human culture. Culture is not stagnant. It transforms with time, space and necessity. Culture is absorbed through direct instruction or through observation, imitation, and adaptation. Continuous socialization causes the individual to internalize thoughts.
The use of marriage symbols supports tradition and customs. Customs are manifestations of a sector of people who want to design society according to their needs and interests. They are designed to meet the needs of society.
Thought behind:
Hindu women, mainly Bengali women and also in Bihari culture wear certain marriage symbols like Shakha, Pola, Loha and Sindoor. Shakha are white bracelets made from conch shell and Pola are red bracelets made from red corals. There is an iron bracelet called Loha.
Shakha and Pola are worn on both hands. The bride has to wear Pola between Shakha or iron metal bangles. Iron metal bracelets are said to maintain the balance between positive and negative powers. It is worn only on the left hand. May or may not be covered in gold.
Sindoor is vermilion that is applied to the hairline. The use of Sindoor by a woman implies that she is already married. All these are marriage symbols for Bengali Hindu women. Many believe that wearing these could ward off bad omens and enhance the beauty of the bride and also the love between couples.
Importance
Shakha & Pola are a main adornment of a married woman. Today this had become precious jewelry for all married women. This custom is most popular in the eastern part of India as well as in the north of India. In West Bengal, according to the Bengali culture, Shakha & Pola has great meaning. Before the actual Bengali marriage day, married women perform a ritual called Dodhi Mangal in which they dip bracelets made from shells in water mixed with turmeric. Seven married women put Shakha Pola in the hands of the bride. She symbolizes as seven forms of Goddess.
It is a naturally made shell, it just needs to be carved with care and patience. The Shakha, while appearing firm, can become brittle if handled carelessly. Similarly, in a married life, the bride should make sure to fulfill her responsibility without losing her charm, sensitivity and morals accompanied by auspicious thinking.
Beautiful appearance:
Custom is another golden page of a married life. Shakha & Pola are nature’s blessing for the married woman. It is not just an ornament but it is a pride for a married woman.
Traditionally, whenever a married woman applies Vermilion/Sindoor to her forehead as a symbol of being married, a little Vermillion is also applied to her left Shakha. This wonderful tradition continues without any hindrance.
These traditions bring us closer to our society and our family. Those little things make our life more beautiful and fill every moment with happiness and love.
