Walk into any Indian wedding, festival, or even a regular household and you will hear the soft chime of anklets. Known as payal or pajeb in Hindi, anklets are one of the oldest and most beloved pieces of jewellery in Indian culture. But why do Indian women wear anklets? Is it tradition, fashion, or something deeper? This complete guide answers every question.
What Are Anklets (Payal)?
An anklet is a piece of jewellery worn around the ankle. In India, anklets are called payal, pajeb, or jhanjhar depending on the region. They can be simple chains, elaborate multi-strand designs, or ghungroo anklets with small bells that chime when you walk. Anklets have been part of Indian jewellery traditions for thousands of years — they appear in ancient sculptures, temple carvings, and classical dance forms.
The Cultural and Religious Significance of Anklets
Anklets hold deep meaning in Indian culture that goes far beyond decoration:
- Symbol of marriage and femininity: In many Indian communities, anklets are worn by married women as a symbol of their marital status, alongside mangalsutra and toe rings. The sound of payal is considered auspicious and is associated with the presence of Goddess Lakshmi in the home.
- Bridal tradition: In many communities, payal is an essential part of bridal jewellery, and it is often gifted to the bride by her family or in-laws as a sign of blessing and welcome.
- Classical dance: Anklets with ghungroo bells are an essential part of classical Indian dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, and Kuchipudi. The rhythm of the bells marks the dancer's footwork.
- Traditional wellness beliefs: Many families believe silver anklets keep the body cool and support circulation in the legs. These are traditional beliefs rather than proven medical benefits.
Which Foot Should You Wear an Anklet On?
Unlike toe rings, there is no strict rule about which foot to wear an anklet on in Indian tradition. However, the most common practice is:
- Anklets are traditionally worn on both feet simultaneously.
- Wearing on only one foot is also acceptable, especially for fashion purposes.
- In some communities, wearing an anklet only on the left foot has spiritual significance.
- For bridal wear, both feet are always adorned with matching payal sets.
If you are wearing anklets as a fashion accessory, wear them however you feel comfortable — both feet, one foot, layered, or stacked.
Why Silver Anklets Are Most Common
Just like toe rings, anklets in India are traditionally made from silver rather than gold. The reasons are:
- Religious belief: Gold is sacred and associated with Goddess Lakshmi. Wearing gold below the waist is considered disrespectful in Hindu tradition.
- Cooling belief: Silver is traditionally believed to have cooling properties for the feet and legs.
- Practical durability: Silver-plated and 925 sterling silver anklets are more durable and affordable for daily wear compared to gold.
Types of Anklets Worn in India
Indian anklets come in a stunning variety of styles for every occasion:
- Ghungroo Payal: Anklets with small bells that chime with every step. Used in dance and worn at festivals and weddings.
- Silver Chain Anklets: Delicate chain designs perfect for daily wear. Lightweight and skin-friendly.
- Oxidised Anklets: Dark-finished anklets with an antique, bohemian aesthetic. Popular with ethnic and fusion outfits.
- Bridal Payal: Heavy, ornate anklets with intricate designs, meenakari work, or stone settings. Worn at weddings and receptions.
- Adjustable Anklets: Modern designs with adjustable closures that fit all ankle sizes — ideal for online purchases.
- Combo Payal Sets: Matching ankle and toe ring sets that complete the full feet jewellery look.
Regional Anklet Traditions Across India
Every region of India has its own unique anklet tradition:
- Rajasthan: Heavy silver payal with ghungroo bells and tribal motifs are a signature of Rajasthani brides.
- Maharashtra: Simple gold or silver chain anklets worn by Maharashtrian women alongside their traditional jewellery.
- Punjab: Elaborate payal with intricate filigree work, worn during festivals like Teej and Karva Chauth.
- Tamil Nadu: Kolusu (anklets) are a must-have for Tamil brides, often in heavy gold or silver with bell charms.
- Bengal: Noopur anklets with a distinctive jingle are central to Bengali dance and bridal traditions.
How to Style Anklets
Anklets are incredibly versatile and look beautiful with a wide range of outfits:
- With saree: A heavy payal or ghungroo anklet completes the traditional look beautifully.
- With salwar kameez: A simple silver chain anklet adds elegance without being overwhelming.
- With jeans and western outfits: Delicate or oxidised anklets are perfect for a boho-chic fusion look.
- At the beach: Adjustable silver anklets with shell or stone accents are perfect for beach and summer styling.
- Layered anklets: Stack 2–3 thin anklets on the same ankle for a trendy, modern look.
How to Choose the Right Anklet
When buying anklets online, keep these factors in mind:
- Size: Standard anklet size is 9–10 inches for Indian women. Always choose adjustable designs when buying online.
- Material: Silver or silver-plated brass for daily wear. Oxidised finish for ethnic styling. Gold-plated for festive occasions.
- Weight: Lightweight anklets for daily comfort. Heavier designs for weddings and special occasions.
- Noise level: Ghungroo anklets chime. Plain chain designs are silent. Choose based on your preference.
- Set or single: Matching pairs always look more put-together, especially for traditional occasions.
How to Care for Your Anklets
To keep your payal looking beautiful for years:
- Remove before bathing, swimming, or applying body lotion
- Store in a dry soft pouch to prevent tangles and scratches
- Wipe gently with a soft dry cloth after wearing
- Avoid contact with perfume, soap, and harsh chemicals
- Keep away from moisture to prevent tarnishing
Shop Anklets at Abdesigns Jewellery
At Abdesigns Jewellery, we offer hundreds of anklet and payal designs — from delicate daily-wear silver chains to elaborate bridal payal sets. All our anklets are handcrafted in India, skin-friendly, nickel-free, adjustable, and tarnish-resistant.
Cash on Delivery available. Free shipping on orders above ₹750.
Browse our complete anklets collection →
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Related guides
- Silver anklets for women — the complete guide
- Why Indian women wear toe rings
- Best anklets for women and girls
Shop Anklets & payal — nickel-free, handcrafted in Surat. Free shipping above ₹750, COD across India.
