Traditional Jewelry of Chhattisgarh: A Glimpse into Tribal and Royal Elegance

Chhattisgarh, the land of vibrant traditions and tribal heritage, boasts a unique and diverse jewelry culture. The jewelry of this region is a blend of tribal aesthetics, nature-inspired designs, and ancient craftsmanship. Unlike mainstream gold jewelry, Chhattisgarhi ornaments are often made of silver, bronze, brass, and even beads, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of the Gond, Baiga, and Muria tribes.

Let’s explore some of the most iconic jewelry pieces of Chhattisgarh that continue to be cherished by women and men alike.

Suta-Moni – The Signature Necklace of Chhattisgarh

A stunning beaded necklace adorned with coins or metal pendants, Suta-Moni is a common adornment among tribal women. It is simple yet elegant, reflecting the beauty of indigenous craftsmanship.

Phuli – The Nose Pin of Tribal Women

The Phuli is a gold nose pin worn by the tribal women of Chhattisgarh. Its intricate design and minimalistic appeal make it a significant part of their daily adornments.

Kardhan – The Traditional Waist Belt

A stunning waist belt made of silver or brass, Kardhan is often worn by brides or dancers during festivals. It accentuates the beauty of traditional attire while also representing strength and femininity.

Patta Haar – The Silver Choker Necklace

Patta Haar is a thick silver choker necklace that sits beautifully around the neck, often featuring engraved patterns inspired by nature. It is one of the most sought-after traditional ornaments in the state.

Bali – The Classic Hoop Earrings

A popular earring style in Chhattisgarh, Bali refers to large hoop earrings often made of silver. These are worn by both tribal and non-tribal women, adding charm to their traditional attire.

Bore – The Unique Maang Tikka

Also known as Borla in some regions, the Bore is a round, dome-shaped maang tikka worn on the forehead, enhancing the beauty of brides and married women.

Choora – The Traditional Bangles

Chhattisgarhi women adorn their hands with Choora, which are thick bangles made of silver or brass. These bangles are often worn in stacks, signifying prosperity and tradition.

Tora – The Sacred Necklace of Married Women

A unique ornament, Tora is a traditional beaded necklace with black beads and metallic elements, symbolizing marital status. It is similar to a mangalsutra but has distinct tribal influences.

Bajubandh – The Ornate Armlet

An exquisitely designed armlet, Bajubandh is worn on the upper arms by both men and women during festivals and rituals. It is mostly crafted in silver with detailed carvings.

Kadhah – The Heavy Silver Anklets

One of the most striking pieces of jewelry in Chhattisgarh, Kadhah are thick silver anklets that make a rhythmic sound when worn. These anklets are an essential part of a tribal woman’s jewelry collection.

Khadu – The Sturdy Silver Bracelets

Khadu are massive silver bracelets or cuffs worn by women, often featuring intricate tribal designs. They are handcrafted and reflect the strength and resilience of the tribal communities.

Mounga Mala – The Rudraksha Necklace

A spiritual piece of jewelry, Mounga Mala is a Rudraksha bead necklace worn by both men and women in the region. It is believed to bring good luck and protect against negative energies.

The traditional jewelry of Chhattisgarh is not just about ornamentation—it carries deep cultural and spiritual significance. Whether it is the delicate Phuli nose pin or the bold Khadu bangles, each piece tells a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and the tribal way of life.

These ornaments continue to be handcrafted by skilled artisans, preserving the centuries-old traditions of tribal jewelry-making. Today, many of these pieces are also being adapted into modern designs, making them a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style.