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Durga Puja special Red, gold, clay: The Jewels of Pujo this year
Jewellery for Durga Puja transcends accessories, embodying rituals and heritage. Each piece reflects faith and women’s stories, blending styles
The clink of red-and-white bangles, the shimmer of gold against crisp sarees, the earthy grain of terracotta — jewellery for Durga Puja is not just an accessory, it is a ritual. Each piece worn during the festivities is a prayer in metal, stone or clay, carrying stories of faith, heritage and the women who wore them before. This year, as the air fills with the rhythm of dhak, the look is a fusion of old and new.
Shakha Pola: Symbols of Blessing
No Puja ensemble is complete without the sacred Shakha Pola, the red-and-white conch shell bangles that mark marital bliss and prosperity. “They are worn with reverence as a symbol of cultural identity,” notes fashion stylist-designer Romaa Agarwal. Paired with the classic red-and-white saree, they remain the most iconic emblem of Bengal’s festive style.
“Bengali jewellery has always been celebrated for its opulence, symbolism, and intricate craftsmanship. My perspective as a designer is to retain the timeless motifs and traditional techniques that make them so distinctive, while blending them with contemporary forms and finishes that resonate with modern sensibilities,” adds Romaa.
Jewels with a Royal Echo
Beyond the bangles, Bengal’s past lingers in every ornament. The choker necklace, often silver with a gold polish, recalls regal courts, while the Kolke Pata necklace, with its delicate Victorian-inspired leaf motifs, offers divine grace. The taira tikli, a band-like head ornament, frames the face with traditional splendour. For a queen-like aura, the Kaan Pasha earrings are unmatched: gem-studded, covering the ear, and bold enough to make a statement without the drag of heavy danglers.
Gold, Earth and Everything Between
While gold remains the heartbeat of festive adornment, symbolising wealth and resilience, its interpretations are evolving. “Intricate gold necklaces and pendants, often layered with jhumko sets, exude both luxury and tradition. Shakha Pola and chur bangles continue to be favourites, especially among new brides,” explains Mumbai-based jewellery designer Pooja Jain. Yet another story unfolds in clay. “Terracotta has been used for jewellery since the day we started making Durga Maa idols,” says designer Soma Chakraborty, adding, “Today, terracotta and fabric jewellery have bounced back with heart. Rustic, eco-friendly and deeply rooted in culture, these pieces add an artistic flair to any Puja look.”
