Vanki is an ornament that is typically worn around the arm. It sits flat on the skin and holds the upper arm firmly. This ornament is referred by different names in different languages, in Hindi it’s the bajubandh or bazubandh, in English it is called the armlet, and famously called the Vanki in Telugu.
Evolution of Vanki
Vanki has been an integral part of Indian traditional jewellery, not only was it adorned by women in ancient times, but even by men like wise. It was worn as a plain metal band by warriors and then later became an essential part of Indian rural men. It was worn by men for scientific reasons like improving blood circulation and for creating the right amount of resistance in the upper arm.
Bollywood actor like Amir Khan was also seen sporting an iron armlet while he was portraying the character of a farmer in the movie Lagaan. However, over a period of time this ornament continued to remain an essential part of bride’s trousseau but lost its significance from men’s lives.
Vanki Designs and Style
South Indian weddings are incomplete without the inclusion of this traditional ornament. We often see brides matching her vaddnam, necklace, mangalsutra and vanki to create a sync and style statement. Gold vankis are available in numerous designs these days; let’s explore some of the all time favourite ones –
Antique Traditional Design: A typical vanki design is an inverted V-shape which has its origin traced back to an era where people predominately worshiped snakes or naga. In Indian culture snakes are a symbol of eternity, fertility, renewal of life and strength. Antique vanki designs are inspired by Indian mythology and often have deities like lord Ganesha, goddess Lakshmi, floral motifs, elephants, and even peacock bird. Uncut diamonds, rubies, emeralds are some of the precious stones studded in these vanki and the matte finish makes it look every bit antique symbolizing Indian culture.
Chain Design: This model of vanki is catching up in popularity among the pretty brides. This design has a grand centre locket which is held by gold chain that helps in fastening the ornament around the arm. The reason behind its popularity owes to its dual purpose. One can even use this chain armlet as a chocker. It comes with an adjustable chain to serve the purpose.
Goddess Lakshmi and peacock designs find a special place during the making of Indian wedding jewellery, Goddess Lakshmi is symbolic to auspicious beginning and blessing from above, while peacock personifies beauty and elegance.
Band Design: Band Design armlets are not often preferred as one size doesn’t fit all. The broad gold band around the locket locks firmly around a bride’s arm. The center locket may have pearl drop hanging to it to enhance its beauty. These days the gold band comes with intrinsic mesh work design to make it look delicate.
Vanki is not an ornament that can be worn every day, it is only worn during special occasions like weddings, traditional occasions like festivals, engagements, religious gatherings etc. hence utmost care should be taken while investing into vanki. Since there are plethora of options available online and offline, one may get confused as to what design to pick and most importantly where to pick it from. A simple solution that comes handy is visiting Vaibhav Jewellers website. Buying gold jewellery online is being revolutionized by this leading south Indian brand.
They have an array of vanki design, from the heavy vankis which goes well with sarees, lehengas, to simple, classic ones that can be worn with a western outfit to add that desi tadka, you name it and they have it all!
They have a unique video shopping option as well on their website, all you have to do is to book a slot, and you would get a chance to take a real time look at their fantastic workmanship!
Some of their other benefits include: –
– Free shipping
– Special discounts
– Customisations and special inscriptions
– Life time exchange option
So, what are you waiting for, rekindle your love for Indian antique temple jewellery and add this beautiful ornament to your collection today!
