Indian women are crazy for jewellery. Women and jewellery are something which is inter related with each other. When we say jewellery, the picture which strikes our mind is of beautiful Indian women adorning different ornaments simply enchanting her over all look and beauty. Jewellery has a great religious significance in our Indian culture. Jewellery items depict our rich cultural heritage and are famous in all over the world.
From head to toe, from neck to ankle, from wrist to waist; there is ample jewellery for every part of the body which beautifies the look of women and providing health benefits. One such ornament which is designed to amplify the attractiveness of the belly is Kamarbandh.
Kamarbandh commonly known as the waistband, or belly belt is called as Oddhiyanam in Tamilnadu and kardhani in Rajasthan, is worn around the waist. Kamarbandh adds the x- factor in the style statement and personality of a beautiful woman. It is one of the significant jewellery for an Indian bride.In south India, kamarbandh are worn by an Indian bride paired well with kanjivaram sarees or silk sarees. It goes well with beautiful lehenga, lanchas, sarees, and skirts enhancing the grace and elegance of a married woman.
One of the sixteen adornments of married women, Kamarbandh encircles the waist and makes a woman a real diva giving a sizzling look. Even in present scenario, this magnificent jewellery piece has not lost its importance. Married women love to adorn kamarbandh on various occasions including wedding ceremony.Traditionally, kamarbandh is associated with the power and authority, a newlywed bride gets in her new home. Newly wed is given the keys of the house by her mother-in-law signifying that now she is the in-charge of the house and it’s her responsibility to take care of the family’s treasure and wealth.
Generally available in Gold and Silver, kamarbandh (kardhani) helps in regulating the saturation of fat around waist line giving women a more sexier and feminism appeal. It helps in maintaining women’s figure. This alluring kamarbandh regulates menstrual periods and provides relief in menstrual pain. It helps in conserving positive enthusiasm warding off negative energies. It is also believed that it aids in keeping one’s throat clear of mucus and phlegm due to constant friction between silver kamarbandh and skin.
Earlier it was worn by both men and women. It was earlier worn by kings or queens of the ancient period. Many Hindu deities, Lord Krishna, goddess Laxmi can be seen wearing kamarbandh. Kamarbandh is also adorned by dancers of classical dance forms; Bharatnatyam, and Kathak.
With modern era, Kamarbandh designs and styles have experienced a great change. This magnificent piece of jewellery is now available in heavier to sleek designs embellished with beads, pearls, precious stones, Kundan, or polka. Now, Kamarbandh is back in a trend. From an ordinary woman to celebrities, all are seen flaunting their curves and beauty with an exquisite piece of jewellery, kamarbandh (belly belt). The Younger generation also loves to adorn belly belt over low waist skirt, jeans or trousers.