A Trend Emerges
The contemporary act of adorning the wrist with a mangalsutra, typically worn around the neck, has gained significant traction in recent times. Nick Jonas,
affectionately termed 'jiju' by his Indian fanbase, recently captured attention by sporting his wife Priyanka Chopra's mangalsutra as a bracelet. This gesture, showcased in his enthusiastic promotion of Chopra's film 'The Bluff,' resonated widely online. This unique styling isn't entirely novel; prominent figures like Shilpa Shetty have previously embraced this trend. Furthermore, Radhika Merchant was noted for a striking appearance in December 2024 at the NMACC Arts Café launch, where she sported a mangalsutra bracelet from Dior's Spring/Summer 2023 collection. Her ensemble, complete with ornate earrings and a statement ring, drew particular focus to her unconventional yet elegant mangalsutra accessory, igniting considerable online discussion about this modern interpretation of a deeply rooted cultural symbol.
Cultural Significance
Priyanka Chopra Jonas, in a 2021 Instagram Live session during Bulgari's mangalsutra launch in India, articulated her perspective on this traditional symbol. Describing herself as a blend of modernity and tradition, she emphasized personal choice, stating, 'I would buy my beautiful mangalsutra with the money I make, and that’s me smashing the patriarchy.' She recounted the profound experience of wearing it for the first time, acknowledging its established meaning. Simultaneously, Chopra underscored the modern woman's awareness of societal perceptions, posing the question, 'Do I like the idea of wearing the mangalsutra? Or is it too patriarchal?' She also shared her personal styling approach for the 'contemporary' mangalsutra, noting its versatility with casual wear like jeans and a shirt, appreciating its cool aesthetic. While retaining the traditional black, white, and beads – associated with warding off evil and protection – she infused it with a modern sensibility.
Gestures of Affection
Nick Jonas's public display of affection through wearing his wife's mangalsutra transcends a mere fashion statement; it signifies a deep expression of love through thoughtful, everyday actions. According to Dr. Ambarish Ghosh, a consultant psychiatrist at CMRI, such consistent acts of endearment are crucial for cultivating profound connections and reinforcing relationship bonds. Dr. Ghosh observes that in today's fast-paced and sometimes capricious world, individuals often prefer daily affirmations of their partner's emotions and love over waiting for special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays. These seemingly small gestures, he explains, effectively convey to partners that they are cherished and that even minor details contributing to their happiness are noticed and valued. This approach requires minimal effort and ensures the partner remains consistently in one's thoughts. The ability to maintain one's individuality and professional life while nurturing a relationship through such attentive acts is paramount to its strength. In an era where relationships can be perceived as fragile and individuals may experience multiple partnerships before settling down, these gestures serve as a powerful, cost-effective means of expressing love and commitment.
