Bhandi Thali

 

This is a traditional necklace, distinct in design and associated with royal and aristocratic settings. It appears to have deep cultural or ceremonial value. It has a Large Ruby Pendant is the focal point of the design, featuring a large, high-quality ruby, symbolizing opulence and richness. The large ruby pendant is the central piece, symbolizing wealth, power, and auspiciousness. Rubies have long been associated with royalty in Indian culture, often considered "the king of gemstones" Ratnaraj They are believed to bring good fortune and protection to the wearer. It has thick Gold Chain which is made of substantial gold, likely signifying durability and luxury. The intricate design and use of diamonds, ruby add elegance to its traditional aesthetic.This not only highlights the craftsmanship but also the wealth and status of the owner. The diamonds, though tiny, complement the ruby and add a sparkling, luxurious touch. Which has a use within royal households, indicating its exclusivity and connection to heritage. The sharp design of the pendant's ring, set with rubies, suggests meticulous attention to detail in traditional jewelry-making techniques. Necklaces like the Bhandi Thali might have been worn during auspicious occasions such as weddings, temple rituals, or royal ceremonies. Bhandi Thali is described as unique to royal households, meaning it was likely worn by queens or women of noble families during significant events. Such jewelry pieces often symbolized their lineage, heritage, and connection to divine or spiritual beliefs. Apart from hindus during a traditional Jain wedding in Karnataka, the groom presents the Bhandhi Thali to the bride as part of the marriage rituals. The pendant design may include Geometric patterns like circles or ovals.

Engravings or motifs representing auspicious symbols, such as lotuses, swastikas, or other Jain spiritual symbols. It signifies the beginning of their marital life and the blessings of the family and community.This design may vary slightly depending on the specific Jain sub-sect or community. It is often passed down from one generation to the next, carrying a familial and spiritual legacy.

In this college, we can see the nayaka period sculpture of royal women depicted in the pillars of the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple's Pudhu Mandapam. In that sculpture, the Bhandhi Thali is prominently shown. Additionally, I have included pictures of processional deities of devi with the thali form from the Melkote Chelvanarayanar Temple and the Nanjangud Nanjundeshwara Temple, as well as images of royal women from Mysore, including Maharajakumari Cheluvajammanni Avaru, the sister of H.H. Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, with her consort, Sri Lakshmi Kantharaj Urs. The picture was taken during their wedding in 1898 (Collection: Ramsons Kala Pratishtana, Mysuru). The postcard pictures of royal courtyard dancers are from 1894. The visual identity unique to India was established by Raja Ravi Varma in 1894. Postcards from this press included popular lithographs and hand-stenciled works. Even in modern times, the usage of this jewel still exists in weddings among the Jain communities of northern Karnataka, where the bride wears this piece. While originally exclusive to royalty, designs inspired by such traditional pieces are now popular in bridal jewelry and festive collections in South India. Jewelers replicate or adapt these heritage designs for contemporary audiences, preserving their timeless appeal.

-- Ramu. RmN