KALEERAS

A kaleera is a traditional bridal ornament worn from the bride’s chooda, usually featuring hanging elements such as beads, pearls, tassels, shells or decorative motifs. Traditionally associated with blessings, prosperity and happiness for the bride’s new journey, kaleeras have also evolved into an important part of contemporary bridal styling.

Traditionally, kaleeras are gifted and tied by the bride’s maternal family, often during the chooda ceremony before the wedding. The exact ritual and timing can vary between families and communities, with the ceremony generally taking place as part of the bride’s pre-wedding celebrations.

During the ceremony, the bride’s kaleeras are attached to her chooda by family members. The ritual is traditionally accompanied by blessings and good wishes for her married life. In some Punjabi wedding traditions, unmarried women are also asked to stand beneath the bride’s kaleeras as they are shaken, as part of the playful tradition surrounding the ceremony.

Kaleeras are generally designed to be worn on both hands, with a coordinated set for the bride. The number of individual hanging elements can vary considerably depending on the design and how elaborate the kaleera is. Ridhi Mehra offers its kaleeras as complete Kaleera Sets, with designs ranging from delicate pearl and bead detailing to more elaborate statement styles.

Kaleeras are traditionally attached to the bride’s chooda using cords, threads or fastening elements that allow the decorative pieces to hang comfortably from the bangles. The exact construction varies by design. Ridhi Mehra’s kaleeras incorporate details such as pearls, beads, crystals, gota lace, zari and silk-thread work.