India boasts a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, each thread intricately woven into the fabric of its magnificent royal heritage. The royal families of India have long been the custodians of not just history and tradition, but also of opulent style and regal elegance. Their grandeur, opulence, and penchant for fashion continue to inspire modern-day brides and grooms, setting the stage for breathtaking bridal and groom ensembles that blend the allure of the past with contemporary flair.
In this blog, we embark on a captivating journey through the corridors of history to explore the distinctive styles of some of India's most prominent royal families. From the ethereal beauty of Benarasi sarees favored by the Zamindari royalty of West Bengal to the timeless elegance of Mysore silk sarees embraced by the Mysore royal family, each region tells its unique sartorial story. Discover how these royal lineages have left an indelible mark on bridal and groom fashion, creating a trend that stands the test of time.
Why Do Modern Brides & Grooms Take Inspiration From The Royal Families of India For their Wedding?
Modern brides and grooms draw inspiration from the royal families of India for a multitude of compelling reasons. Firstly, the royal ensembles exude timeless elegance, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and opulent fabrics. These elements offer a sense of grandeur and sophistication that modern couples aspire to emulate on their special day.
Furthermore, the fashion of India's royal households reflects the diverse cultural heritage of the country, enabling couples to celebrate their roots and pay homage to their regional traditions. Additionally, the allure of royal style lies in its ability to seamlessly blend tradition with contemporary trends, offering a perfect fusion of the old and the new. By incorporating royal fashion into their weddings, modern brides and grooms create a captivating tapestry of heritage, romance, and regal charm that truly defines their union.
8 Royal Families of India To Take Inspirations From For Your Wedding
From the intricately embroidered sherwanis of the Patiala royal family to the grace of Kasavu sarees donned by the Travancore royals, this blog unravels the signature styles of India's royal households. Immerse yourself in the exquisite details of Nawabi Nawar Sherwanis, traditional Phulkari embroidery, and the elaborate adornments of temple jewelry, as we pay homage to the grandeur and charm of India's regal history.
1. The Rajputs of Rajasthan
In the bygone era of Rajasthan, the land of chivalry and valor, the Rajput royals adorned themselves in a manner befitting their regal heritage. Rajput brides, inspired by the tales of courage and grandeur, draped themselves in exquisite lehengas and sarees adorned with intricate Rajasthani embroidery. The likes of Maharani Padmini, renowned for her beauty, graced these garments that boasted mirror work, Gota Patti, and Bandhani tie-dye patterns. These elaborate designs mirrored the opulence of the royal courts, with every thread woven to perfection.
The traditional jewelry worn by Rajput brides also spoke of their majestic lineage. The iconic borla, a large spherical maang tikka, and the resplendent rakhdi, a head ornament, adorned their heads. Chokers, bajuband armlets, and hathphool hand jewelry, all featuring intricate designs and precious gemstones, accentuated their royal allure. The vibrant color palette was carefully chosen to exude grandeur, with bright reds, deep blues, and rich greens transforming brides into timeless symbols of regal elegance.
The tradition extended to Rajput grooms, who emulated the valor and splendor of historical figures like Maharana Pratap. They donned sherwanis and achkans with intricate embroidery, evoking the martial spirit of the Rajput warriors. The safa, a crucial element in their attire, was an ornate turban intricately draped to complement the color scheme of their outfit. Embellishments of zardozi, gota patti, and mirror work added a touch of regality to their attire, reminiscent of the courtly garments worn by historical figures like Rana Kumbha.
Today, the legacy of the Rajput royals lives on in the fashion choices of modern brides and grooms. Inspired by the opulent history and timeless style of their ancestors, modern brides opt for lehengas and sarees that pay homage to the intricate Rajasthani embroidery. These contemporary ensembles mirror the grace and grandeur of historical figures like Maharani Gayatri Devi. The traditional jewelry, reminiscent of the iconic borla and rakhdi, enhances the bride's bridal splendor. The vibrant color palette, echoing the bold hues of Rajput tradition, is now a hallmark of modern Rajput bridal attire.
Likewise, Rajput grooms continue to draw inspiration from their legendary forebears. Modern grooms choose sherwanis and achkans adorned with zardozi, gota patti, and mirror work, emulating the valor of historical figures like Rana Sanga. The safa, reminiscent of the ornate turbans worn by the Rajput warriors, plays a vital role in completing their royal look. Traditional leather jootis, often in coordinating colors, offer a touch of authenticity, making the ensemble a bridge between the past and the present.
In the modern era, the attire of Rajput brides and grooms weaves a narrative that transcends time, paying tribute to the valor, culture, and opulence of the Rajput lineage.
2. Mughal Dynasty
A world of grandeur, artistry, and magnificence came to life with the majestic courts of the Mughal Dynasty. Inspired by the legacies of historical figures like Emperor Akbar and Empress Nur Jahan, Mughal brides and grooms draped themselves in attire that defined an era and continues to captivate the hearts of modern couples.
Mughal-inspired bridal attire, as seen on empresses like Mumtaz Mahal, is an embodiment of luxury. The choice of sumptuous fabrics such as silk, velvet, and brocade, was a tribute to the richness of the Mughal Empire. These materials created an opulent texture that reflected the grandeur of the era. Zardozi embroidery, a hallmark of Mughal-inspired bridal wear, adorned the attire of empresses like Noor-un-Nissa with intricate metallic threads, gemstones, and semi-precious stones, creating a touch of royalty that left a lasting legacy.
The color palette of Mughal-style bridal outfits, much like those favored by Emperor Shah Jahan and his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, features deep reds, royal blues, emerald greens, and regal purples. These rich and deep colors are associated with opulence and grandeur, much like the architecture of the Taj Mahal.
Elaborate headpieces, reminiscent of the Mughal era's empresses, graced the brides. Adorned with pearls, gemstones, and traditional motifs, they elevated the regal look. Heavy jewelry, including jhumkas, polki necklaces, maang tikka, chokers, and kundan bracelets, all featuring intricate designs and gemstones, were the crowning jewels of the bridal ensemble. Veils and drapes added to the grace and royalty, just as they did for historical figures like Empress Nur Jahan.
Modern brides, inspired by the Mughal Dynasty's splendor, echo this majestic fashion. The choice of luxurious fabrics, including silk, velvet, and brocade, along with elaborate zardozi embroidery, emulates the timeless elegance of Mumtaz Mahal's attire. The rich and deep color palette pays tribute to the imperial romance of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal. Elaborate headpieces, reminiscent of historical empresses, continue to enhance the modern bridal look.
For grooms, Mughal-inspired sherwanis, reminiscent of Emperor Jahangir's attire, exude regal grandeur. These intricately designed sherwanis, crafted from luxurious materials like brocade, mirror the impeccable fashion sense of historical figures like Emperor Akbar. The use of rich and regal colors, much like those donned by the Mughal emperors, adds an air of opulence to the groom's attire. Traditional accessories, including the safa with ornate draping, brooches, and kalgi, harken back to the ceremonial elegance of Mughal royalty.
Jewelry, a nod to the Mughal traditions, completes the groom's ensemble. Necklaces, brooches, and jootis, adorned with gemstones and intricate designs, embody the grace and regality of the Mughal era. Some grooms even choose to carry a ceremonial sword, a symbol of the Mughal warrior tradition that echoes the valor of historical figures like Emperor Aurangzeb.
In the timeless allure of Mughal-inspired bridal and groom attire, modern couples find themselves stepping into a world of regal splendor, where history and fashion intertwine to celebrate the grandeur of a dynasty that left an indelible mark on the annals of time.
3. Zamindars of Bengal
Zamindari Royalty of West Bengal, deeply rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of Bengal, has left an indelible mark on the fashion choices of modern brides and grooms. Drawing inspiration from the royal legacy of the region, contemporary couples often pay homage to the Zamindari style, which embodies a blend of opulence and tradition.
The influence of the Zamindari royal family is most prominently seen in the bridal attire. Benarasi sarees, characterized by their exquisite silk and intricate zari work, are a popular choice among Bengali brides. These vibrant sarees, often passed down through generations, pay homage to the royal patronage of fine craftsmanship. Modern brides continue to cherish the timeless beauty and elegance these sarees represent, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the Zamindari royals.
These fashion traditions inspired by the Zamindari Royalty of West Bengal can be traced back to some historical personalities and events. One such personality is Rani Rashmoni, a prominent figure in Bengal's history. She was a renowned philanthropist and the founder of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple in Kolkata, which is a significant religious and cultural landmark. Rani Rashmoni's patronage of art and culture in the region, including her support for traditional crafts and textiles, has left a lasting legacy that continues to influence modern bridal and groom fashion choices.
The annual Durga Puja festival, celebrated with great pomp and grandeur in Bengal, has also played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the Zamindari style. During this festival, families across the state showcase their finest Benarasi sarees, jewelry, and traditional headpieces, paying tribute to the rich heritage of the Zamindari royals. This event has not only preserved these traditional styles but also brought them to the forefront of contemporary fashion choices for brides and grooms.
Another iconic element borrowed from the royal heritage is the mukut, a crown-like headpiece adorned with floral and jewel motifs. In traditional Bengali weddings, the bride's look is incomplete without this regal accessory, which symbolizes grace, beauty, and a connection to the rich heritage of Bengal's Zamindari royalty.
In the realm of Bengal's literature and art, historical narratives and depictions of royal life often feature ornate Benarasi sarees and traditional jewelry, reinforcing their significance in Bengali culture. These literary and artistic expressions have kept the legacy of Zamindari fashion alive and continue to inspire modern couples seeking a touch of regal elegance in their wedding attire.
In essence, the timeless elegance and regal grandeur of the Zamindari Royalty of West Bengal, as exemplified by Benarasi sarees, mukuts, shakha-pola, and topors, remain an enduring source of inspiration for modern brides and grooms. This connection to the rich heritage of Bengal, embodied by historical figures like Rani Rashmoni and celebrated through events like Durga Puja, underscores the profound influence of the Zamindari style on contemporary wedding fashion in the region.
4. Nizams of Hyderabad
In the era of the Nizams, grooms paid homage to the grandeur of their dynasty through their attire. Sherwanis crafted from rich and regal fabrics such as brocade, silk, and velvet adorned their figures. These sherwanis, reminiscent of historical figures like the Seventh Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan, were characterized by intricate embroidery and elaborate embellishments, creating an aura of regal elegance.
Zari work, a prominent feature in Nizam-inspired groom's attire, added a touch of luxury and opulence, much like the reign of Nizam Mahbub Ali Pasha. The color palette, drawing inspiration from historical events like the grandeur of the Chowmohalla Palace, included deep and vibrant hues like rich maroon, royal blue, and emerald green, symbolizing grandeur and elegance.
The safa, an important component of the groom's attire, often intricately draped, paid tribute to the grand traditions of the Nizams. It complemented the color scheme of the ensemble and featured ornate brooches, echoing the meticulous elegance of the Nizam era. Traditional Nizami jewelry, including heavy necklaces, rings, and brooches, often adorned with precious and semi-precious stones, evoked the opulence celebrated by Nizam Sikandar Jah.
Footwear, like mojris or juttis, featured elaborate embroidery and designs, mirroring the attention to detail exemplified by historical figures like Nizam Afzal-ud-Dawlah. Grooms continue to embrace these elements, honoring the regal legacy of the Nizams, and embodying the same opulence and style on their wedding day.
The Nizami brides, inspired by historical figures like the iconic Princess Durru Shehvar, adorn themselves with elaborate Kundan and Polki jewelry, reminiscent of the grandeur of the Nizam dynasty. These intricate sets include necklaces, earrings, maang tikka, and bangles, all featuring intricate designs and adorned with precious and semi-precious gemstones.
Hyderabadi pearls, renowned for their iridescence and elegance, drape the brides. Multiple strands of lustrous pearls, as seen during historical events like the grandeur of the Falaknuma Palace, take center stage in their bridal ensemble. These pearls pay tribute to the Nizam era's love for exquisite jewelry.
Zardozi work and embroidery, much like the craftsmanship that flourished under the Nizams, heavily embellished the bridal attire. The wedding lehenga and blouse feature richly detailed patterns and motifs, enhancing the regal look inspired by historical events like the annual Nizam's jewelry exhibition.
Brides choose luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade, just as historical figures like Nizam Mir Mahbub Ali Khan did, for their wedding attire. These fabrics are chosen not only for their opulent texture but also for their ability to hold intricate embroidery, echoing the regal grace of the Nizam era.
The drape of the saree or the style of the lehenga is an essential aspect of Nizami bridal fashion, capturing the essence of the historical Nawabi influence that graced Hyderabad. Bridal outfits are often accompanied by ornate dupattas, delicately embroidered and heavily adorned, echoing the grandeur of the Nizams' courts.
Henna designs, with their intricate and detailed patterns, harken back to the Nizami bridal tradition. These designs, reminiscent of historical ceremonies like the Eid-e-Milad, cover the hands and sometimes extend to the forearms and feet, adding a touch of authentic charm to the modern Nizami bridal look.
In paying homage to the Nizams and their rich cultural heritage, modern brides and grooms find themselves immersed in a world of grandeur, elegance, and intricate craftsmanship, where the legacy of the Nizam dynasty continues to inspire and influence contemporary fashion choices.
5. Kashmiri Royalty
The rich cultural heritage of Kashmir, exemplified by the artistic traditions and craftsmanship of the region, has long been a source of inspiration for modern brides and grooms who seek to embrace the timeless elegance of Kashmiri fashion.
Brides, reminiscent of the opulent celebrations held during historical events like the Chinars of Kashmir, often choose sarees and lehengas made from fine fabrics like pashmina and silk. These outfits, much like those cherished by Kashmiri royalty, are characterized by intricate embroidery and traditional motifs that tell stories of the region's rich history.
A traditional Kashmiri shawl, such as a pashmina shawl, adds a touch of luxury and heritage to the bride's attire. These shawls, known for their exquisite craftsmanship and warm, luxurious feel, carry the legacy of Kashmiri craftsmanship.
Some brides, in homage to historical events like the Shikara festival, opt for traditional Kasavu sarees, which are white with golden borders. Paired with temple jewelry and fresh floral garlands, this look embodies the pristine grace of the region.
Zari and Tilla embroidery, reminiscent of the intricacies found in historical events like the Tulip Festival, adds elegance and sophistication to the bridal attire, preserving the artistry of the region.
Brides adorn themselves with traditional Kashmiri jewelry, paying homage to the craftsmanship celebrated during historical events like the Saffron Harvest Festival. Jhumkas, Dejharu, and necklaces, often adorned with intricate designs and semi-precious stones, complete the regal look.
Hand jewelry, such as the haathphool that connects rings to bracelets, adds a delicate touch to the hands, as seen during historical celebrations like the Nishat Bagh Mughal Gardens. Mogra and rose garlands, reminiscent of the fragrance and natural beauty celebrated during historical events like the Shalimar Bagh blooms, are worn to complete the look.
For grooms, the influence of Kashmiri fashion, reminiscent of the royal traditions of the region, is equally profound. The phiran, a traditional Kashmiri robe that provides warmth and comfort, is often worn. These phirans, as seen during historical events like the Pahalgam Winter Festival, can be plain or elaborately embroidered, reflecting the occasion's grandeur.
For more formal occasions like weddings, the pheran pootz, intricately embroidered and often accompanied by matching trousers or churidar pants, pays tribute to the elegant traditions of the region.
A raditional headwear called the "taranga," reminiscent of historical personalities like the charismatic Gulab Singh, is an essential part of the groom's ensemble. Adorned with intricate embroidery, it is an elegant tribute to the culture.
Traditional Kashmiri footwear, known as "jootis" or "nagras," chosen for its intricate embroidery, completes the groom's look, echoing the timeless elegance celebrated during historical events like the Chilai Kalan festival.
Grooms often drape a traditional Kashmiri shawl over their attire, much like the charismatic Maharaja Hari Singh did during historical events. These shawls, finely woven with intricate patterns, add a regal touch to the groom's appearance.
Kashmiri jewelry pieces, such as earrings or a brooch, often echoing local designs and craftsmanship celebrated during historical events like the Holi Festival of Colors, are worn with pride.
From the sumptuous fabrics to the intricate embroidery, from the fragrance of mogra and rose garlands to the regal shawls, modern brides and grooms continue to draw inspiration from the timeless elegance and rich heritage of Kashmiri fashion, keeping alive the spirit of the region's grand traditions.
6. Mysore Royal Family
Mysore's richness and extensive cultural traditions have had a significant impact on the attire of contemporary brides and grooms, providing a window into the region's illustrious royal past.
Mysore Silk Sarees, much like those favored by historical figures like Maharani Lakshmi Ammani, continue to be the emblematic choice for brides. These sarees, made from pure silk, are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and intricate zari work. They evoke the grandeur of historical Mysore events like the Dasara festival, where royalty and splendor intertwine.
Brides, reminiscent of the elegance of the Wadiyars, adorn themselves with elaborate jewelry. Traditional gold necklaces, temple jewelry, and intricate waistbands (vaddanams) are often adorned with precious gemstones, paying homage to the grandeur of the Mysore Maharajas.
Incorporating traditional South Indian hair accessories like the maang tikka and veni, brides infuse an element of elegance into their hairstyles, drawing inspiration from the refined beauty of historical events like the Mysore Palace celebrations.
The Mysore bride's hairstyle, a braid adorned with fresh jasmine flowers, is a tribute to the region's floral heritage, echoing the timeless fragrance and beauty celebrated during historical events like the Brindavan Gardens' illumination.
The Mysore saree is draped in a traditional style, with the pallu positioned at the front, showcasing the intricate zari work. This drape, reminiscent of the grandeur of historical Mysore processions, encapsulates the essence of the region's regal fashion.
Intricate henna or mehndi designs, much like those celebrated during historical ceremonies like the Mysore Palace Dasara, are applied to the bride's hands and feet, adding not only to the beauty but also to the symbolism of the wedding.
Some brides may choose Kundan and Polki jewelry, echoing the intricate designs and elaborate detailing seen during historical events that celebrated Mysore's artistic richness.
Grooms often embrace the traditional attire that has been celebrated by Mysore royalty. The Mysore silk dhoti and kurta, reminiscent of historical figures like Maharaja Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar, are the hallmarks of the groom's ensemble. The dhoti, crafted from high-quality silk, is paired with a kurta featuring intricate embroidery and fine craftsmanship, echoing the Mysore artistry.
The Mysore Peta, an iconic turban known for its elaborate design and rich symbolism, is donned by the groom. Adorned with traditional motifs and often featuring a brooch, it pays tribute to historical events where the Peta was proudly worn by the Wadiyars.
An ornate shawl or angavastram, richly embroidered and reminiscent of historical celebrations like the Mysore Dasara, adds to the groom's regal appearance, capturing the essence of Mysore's royal traditions.
Grooms typically wear traditional South Indian jewelry, such as gold necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. These jewelry pieces, crafted with intricate designs, may feature gemstones, reflecting the timeless elegance celebrated during historical events like the Mysore Dussehra celebrations.
Sandalwood paste, a traditional practice in South Indian weddings, is applied to the groom's forehead, further enhancing the groom's royal appearance. Fragrant flower garlands and, at times, a ceremonial sword as a nod to valor and tradition, complete the groom's ensemble.
The groom's attire is complemented by traditional leather sandals, known as "Mysore sandals," echoing the fine craftsmanship and comfortable designs that have been celebrated throughout Mysore's history.
In embracing the legacy of Mysore, modern brides and grooms pay homage to the region's royal heritage, keeping alive the traditions and regal elegance that have left an indelible mark on Mysore's fashion and cultural identity.
7. Awadh/Oudh's Nawabi Royalty
Awadh brides draw inspiration from the royal heritage of Lucknow by choosing elegant Anarkali suits or lehengas adorned with intricate chikankari embroidery. This signature Lucknawi embroidery style is known for its fine, white threadwork on pastel-colored fabrics, echoing the grace and charm celebrated by historical figures like Begum Hazrat Mahal.
Chikankari work, a hallmark of Awadh's artistic tradition, is meticulously incorporated into the bridal attire. The delicate and intricate patterns, much like those favored by Nawabs and Begums of Awadh during cultural events, grace the bride's ensemble.
Traditional Lucknawi jewelry, including elaborate jhumkas (earrings), intricate necklaces, and bangles, adds to the bride's regal look. These pieces often feature intricate designs and may include pearls, paying tribute to the artistic grandeur celebrated during the reign of Nawabs and Begums.
Elaborate mehndi and henna designs on the bride's hands, arms, and feet, reminiscent of the artistic heritage of the region, bring an artistic and cultural touch to the bridal appearance.
A prominent feature in Awadhi bridal style is the nath, a large and ornate nose ring that often adorns the bride's face, echoing the elegance and sophistication of the historical era.
The bride completes her look with a traditional Odhni (veil) featuring chikankari work and intricate borders, reminiscent of the attire worn by noblewomen during grand cultural celebrations.
Traditional Indian footwear like jootis or mojris, often embellished with embroidery, adds authenticity to the bride's attire, much like the footwear favored by the royals of Awadh.
Don’t we all remember Kajol aka Anjali from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham saying, “Lucknow da kurta, Pathani salwar; tab lage mard, varna lage bekaar”. So, here are our modern-day grooms opting for Lucknow da kurta and Nawabi-style sherwanis, inspired by the Awadh (Oudh) royal family's regal legacy.
These sherwanis, akin to those worn by historical figures like Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, feature intricate chikankari embroidery and fine threadwork, paying tribute to Lucknow's artistic heritage. The sherwani is typically paired with churidar pants or a salwar, creating a traditional and regal ensemble that echoes the refined fashion celebrated during Nawabi events.
In Lucknow, renowned for its chikankari embroidery and Nawabi heritage, grooms often opt for Lucknow's popular kurtas. These kurtas feature intricate chikankari embroidery, soft pastel colors, and elegant silhouettes, embodying the city's regal and sophisticated style. When grooms choose these kurtas, they pay homage to Lucknow's rich cultural heritage while adding a touch of timeless elegance to their wedding attire.
The groom's headwear is often a traditional safa, intricately draped and color-coordinated with the sherwani. This reflects the style embraced by Nawabs during the grand cultural celebrations of Awadh.
Grooms pay homage to the Nawabi culture by wearing traditional jewelry pieces, such as a jadau necklace, brooch, or kundan earrings, often featuring intricate designs and gemstones reminiscent of the jewelry worn by historical nobility.
Traditional Indian footwear like mojris or jootis, adorned with embroidery and embellishments, adds to the groom's authentic Nawabi look.
As a symbol of valor and tradition, some grooms may carry a ceremonial sword, paying homage to the Nawabs' heritage and the traditions celebrated during historical events.
The groom drapes a traditional Odhni (veil) over the sherwani, often featuring chikankari work, adding a touch of tradition and regal elegance to the ensemble.
In embracing the Awadh (Oudh) royal family's fashion legacy, modern brides and grooms not only pay homage to the region's artistic heritage but also embody the grace, elegance, and grandeur celebrated during historical Nawabi events and cultural festivities.
8. Travancore Royal Family
The Travancore royal family hails from the southern state of Kerala and is renowned for its timeless and elegant fashion. Modern brides and grooms often draw inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of the region, resulting in attire that reflects the grandeur of Travancore's royal legacy.
Brides in Kerala often choose traditional Kasavu sarees, a hallmark of Travancore's royal fashion. These sarees are typically white or cream-colored with intricate gold zari borders, made from fine handwoven cotton. The influence of the royal family's preference for Kasavu sarees is evident as brides continue to don these pristine drapes on their special day. This choice is a testament to the enduring appeal of Travancore's royal fashion.
In the realm of jewelry, the royal court of Travancore set a standard of excellence. Brides often adorn themselves with temple jewelry, characterized by intricate gold necklaces, earrings, bangles, and waistbelts. These jewelry pieces frequently feature traditional motifs and designs, a reflection of the royal family's penchant for intricate ornamentation.
Some brides opt for a Mundu and Jubba, a traditional Kerala bridal attire. The Mundu, a white or cream-colored cloth wrapped around the lower body, pairs beautifully with the Jubba, a fitted blouse adorned with gold borders. This ensemble embodies the elegance and simplicity that has been cherished for generations in Kerala.
Elaborate hair accessories play a significant role in completing the bridal look. Brides wear mullapoo (jasmine flowers) braids and traditional hairpins, often adorned with flowers and jewels, adding a fragrant and regal touch to their overall appearance.
The adornment of Kolusu (anklets) is an essential part of the bride's attire, not only for their intricate designs but also for the melodious sound they create with each step the bride takes. It is a tradition passed down through the generations and holds special significance.
The Mangalsutra, a black beaded necklace often with a gold pendant, is an indispensable symbol of marital status for Kerala brides, reflecting the enduring traditions of the region.
The bride's look is completed with an elaborate bindi on her forehead, a cultural emblem that enhances her overall beauty and adds to her regal presence.
On the groom's side, the influence of the Travancore royal family's fashion choices is seen in the traditional Mundu and Jubba attire. The Mundu, a white or cream-colored cloth draped around the lower body, is paired with the Jubba, a full-sleeved shirt adorned with a distinctive style. This ensemble reflects the timeless and classic fashion that continues to be embraced by grooms.
Grooms in Kerala often adorn themselves with traditional accessories like the Kasavu Mala (gold necklace) and Kasavu Mundu (gold-bordered dhoti), which are known for their intricate designs and craftsmanship. This choice honors the enduring elegance of Travancore's royal fashion.
The influence of the Travancore royal family's fashion choices on modern brides and grooms can be traced back to historical personalities such as Maharani Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, the influential queen of Travancore during the early 20th century. She was known for her impeccable sense of style and timeless elegance, often setting fashion trends during her reign. Her preference for Kasavu sarees and intricate temple jewelry continues to inspire brides in Kerala today.
Additionally, the grandeur of Travancore's royal court, marked by its rich cultural heritage and opulent fashion, has played a pivotal role in shaping the wedding attire of modern couples in the region. The timeless elegance showcased during the region's historical events and celebrations still resonates with contemporary brides and grooms, who seek to embody the regal charm and sophistication that defined the Travancore royal family's fashion.
The legacy of India's royal families lives on, not just in the annals of history but also in the hearts of those who dream of a wedding infused with the timelessness of regal style. Creating a fusion of past and present, traditional and contemporary elegance it will keep on going as it continues to inspire brides and grooms generation after generation.