Shine Bright This Festival Season: Top Jewellery Trends for Makar Sankranti, Pongal, and Lohri
Kalyan Blog
Pongal, Lohri, and Makar Sankranti, though all harvest festivals, are celebrated with distinct customs and mark agricultural and solar events. Observed around mid-January, these vibrant festivals are an important part of India’s cultural calendar, symbolising new beginnings, prosperity, and the joyous harvest season. While each festival is rooted in its own regional traditions, they all share a common theme of gratitude for the harvest and the renewal of life.
Lohri, primarily celebrated in Punjab and northern India, marks the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season. The festival is characterized by bonfires, folk dances like Bhangra, and the sharing of traditional sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery. In contrast, Pongal, celebrated in Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India, is a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, expressing thanks for the agricultural bounty. The festival is known for its special dish, also called Pongal, made from freshly harvested rice, which is cooked in open fields as part of the celebrations.
Meanwhile, Makar Sankranti is celebrated across various regions of India, including Gujarat (where it’s also known as Uttarayan), Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. It marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, and is widely known for the colorful kite flying competitions that fill the skies. Families come together to exchange sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, marking the occasion with joy and festive cheer.
As you indulge in the festive celebrations, let’s help you pick out the perfect set of accessories to adorn and shine. Take a look at this all encompassing guide to the perfect festive jewellery.
- Makar Sankranti
Given the significance of the harvest, bright and colorful jewellery is a great choice. Think of beaded necklaces, kundan sets, or precious stone jewellery using gemstones. Jewellery pieces adorned with ruby, emerald, or turquoise stones work well for this occasion, as they bring a fresh, vibrant energy to your ensemble.
For women, lightweight jewellery like layered necklaces or stackable bracelets are ideal for Makar Sankranti, especially when paired with bright sarees or salwar kameez. Gold or silver bangles in delicate patterns can also be a nice addition.
In keeping with the celebratory spirit, colorful jewellery including gemstone pieces and birthstone rings, jhumkas and other ornaments featuring ethnic motifs can be worn for a festive look.
- Lohri
The jewellery for Lohri should reflect the warmth and vibrancy of the festival.
Traditional Punjabi jewellery is the perfect choice for Lohri celebrations. Consider heavy gold or silver jewellery with intricate designs that reflect the Punjabi heritage. A traditional choker necklace or a rani haar with matching earrings or a maang tikka can be an excellent choice for women. Chandbali earrings, with their large circular shape, are a popular option for making a bold statement.
If you prefer something lighter, you can opt for simple kundan or polki sets. These stones, often set in gold or silver, offer a regal yet understated look. They can be paired with bangles- preferably gold- symbolising prosperity and good fortune. You can also mix and match bangles with other metal options like silver for a layered effect.
Simple nose pins to ornate nose rings can be added to make a delicate yet bold statement,
For men, gold cufflinks can be transformed into buttons on kurtas; a traditional kara (bangle) and ring can be paired with a simple pendant chain or a pocket watch for a more understated yet classic look.
3. Pongal
The jewellery should be bright and in harmony with the season’s bounty.
Since Pongal is a celebration of prosperity, gold jewellery is the preferred choice. Traditional temple jewellery, with intricate designs inspired by Hindu mythology and nature, can make a stunning statement. Traditional necklaces, often studded with precious stones, are an iconic choice. Pair them with jhumkas for a complete look.
Look out for jewellery featuring ethnic motifs like paisleys, peacocks, elephants, and floral designs. These motifs symbolize nature and spirituality, adding a cultural touch to any outfit. These motifs add charm and elegance to necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
For a more casual or contemporary approach, you can go for light silver jewellery or oxidized jewellery which adds a touch of sophistication without feeling heavy. In Southern India, nose rings, waist belts, kasu malai and vanki (armbands) are also commonly worn.
Kasu Malai is a traditional South Indian necklace made with gold coins. It is both elegant and auspicious. This necklace, often worn during festivals and weddings, is a symbol of prosperity and is perfect for the occasion.
Men can accessorize with silver or golden chains, adding a sleek finish to their traditional Pongal attire, whether it’s a dhoti, veshti, or lungi.
Final Thoughts
No matter which of these festivals you’re celebrating—the key is to wear jewellery that reflects the abundance these festivals bring. Whether it’s the heavy traditional gold pieces for Lohri, the intricate temple jewellery for Pongal, or the vibrant, colorful designs for Makar Sankranti, make sure your jewellery is comfortable, reflective of your personal style, and, most importantly, adds to the festive spirit of the occasion.
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