Anklet Meaning in Indian Culture: Traditions and Modern Styles

Quick Answer: In Indian culture, the anklet (called payal or pajeb) is a symbol of marriage, femininity, and auspiciousness. The sound of its bells was traditionally meant to announce a woman's presence and ward off negative energy. Today, anklets are worn by unmarried women and girls too, as fashion statements or spiritual accessories.

The moment silver anklets touch the floor — that soft, rhythmic sound — something ancient stirs. Indian culture has assigned meaning to that sound for thousands of years. It is the sound of arrival, of celebration, of a woman moving through her home. The payal is not just decoration; it is communication.

What Is the Traditional Meaning of an Anklet in India?

In Hindu tradition, the payal is one of the sixteen adornments (shodasha shringar) worn by married women. The sound of the bells is considered auspicious and is said to energise the root and sacral chakras (energy centres in the feet and lower body). In many communities, wearing a payal in silver — never gold, as gold is reserved for upper-body adornment — signals that a woman is married.

Types of Indian Anklets

The payal (North India) is typically a chain link anklet with small bells. The kolusu (Tamil Nadu) is heavier, often made of solid silver with a box-link chain. The ghungroo payal features larger, louder bells used in classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Kathak. Modern variants include delicate chain anklets, charm anklets with stones, and beaded anklets in a range of materials.

Is It Okay for Unmarried Women to Wear Anklets?

Yes, in modern India. While the traditional significance of the payal is connected to marriage in some communities, its social meaning has evolved. Young women across India — unmarried, widowed, and married alike — wear anklets as jewellery without any ritual implication today. Regional customs vary, so context matters, but in most urban settings, anklets carry no mandatory marital connotation.

How to Style Anklets Today

A slim chain anklet is one of the most versatile pieces you can own. It looks as good with a saree or lehenga as it does with bare feet on a beach or a casual pair of flats. For traditional occasions, go for silver or gold-plated with bells. For everyday or casual wear, choose a simple chain or one with small stone charms. Wearing one on each ankle is traditional; one on the left only has become a common modern styling choice.

FAQ

What does it mean to wear an anklet on the left versus the right ankle?

Traditionally in India, anklets were worn on both ankles. In modern and Western-influenced contexts, wearing on the left ankle is sometimes associated with romantic availability or spiritual protection. In Indian tradition, left versus right has less significance — wearing on both ankles is the classical norm.

Can men wear anklets in Indian culture?

Yes. In some tribal communities and certain folk traditions, men wear anklets as part of ceremonial dress. Classical male dancers (in Bharatanatyam, Odissi, etc.) wear ghungroo anklets as part of their performance attire. In everyday modern contexts, male anklet-wearing is less common but growing, particularly among younger, fashion-forward demographics.

What metal should an anklet be made from?

Silver is the traditional and most common metal for Indian anklets, with a cultural belief that gold should not be worn below the waist. Brass and copper anklets are popular for everyday and bohemian styling. Gold or gold-plated anklets are increasingly common in fashion contexts, setting aside the traditional restriction.

Do anklets have a spiritual meaning?

In Hindu and Ayurvedic traditions, silver anklets are believed to improve blood circulation in the feet and legs, balance energy flow, and ground the wearer. The bells are considered protective, their sound deterring negative energy. These beliefs vary by community and region but are widely held across South Asian cultures.

The payal carries centuries of meaning in every step. At KANSYA, we make anklets that honour this heritage in materials and forms suited to how you live today. Explore our jewellery collection.