The Hidden History Behind Indian Women’s Crazy Obsession with Gold!
Tarun Badghaiya | Feb 22, 2025, 12:10 IST
The fixation with gold among Indian women is more than simply fashion; it is a centuries-old practice steeped in culture, religion, and economy. Gold is an important symbol in Hindu mythology, as well as a source of financial stability through dowry and investing. Weddings, celebrations, and even temples are centred around this precious metal, making India one of the world's greatest gold consumers. But is this just tradition, or is there more to the gold mania? This essay reveals the hidden history, societal influence, and surprising reasons why Indian ladies cannot resist gold.
Gold has a unique position in Indian culture, especially among ladies. From prehistoric times to the present day, precious metals have been firmly ingrained in cultural, economic, and social traditions. It is more than just a decoration; it represents riches, security, and heritage. This article investigates the historical, sociological, and economic reasons behind Indian women's ongoing infatuation with gold.
1.
The link between Indians and gold goes back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence reveals that gold was first used in India during the Indus Valley Civilisation (c. 2600-1900 BCE). Gold was utilised for jewellery, religious artefacts, and trade, proving its early significance. The Vedic literature (1500 BCE-500 BCE) regularly allude to gold as a holy and fortunate metal connected with purity and wealth.
Gold coins were used as currency under the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, which increased their worth as a sign of economic dominance. South Indian temples, such as those in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, became receptacles for gold offerings, a custom that continues to this day. The Mughal and Rajput eras increased the significance of gold in Indian jewellery, which is used in elaborate patterns that show creative brilliance and imperial majesty.
Gold is strongly connected to Hindu religious beliefs and practices. Goddess Lakshmi, the Hindu deity of riches and prosperity, is frequently represented sitting on a lotus with gold coins streaming from her hands. Gold is considered pure and is a vital component of religious ceremonies and celebrations. Purchasing gold is said to bring wealth and good fortune during Diwali, Dhanteras, and Akshaya Tritiya.
Gold jewellery is also an important aspect of Indian weddings. The ritual of giving brides gold, known as 'Stridhan,' extends back generations. It reflects a woman's financial stability and independence, guaranteeing that she has her own assets in the event of an emergency. In many tribes, a bride's status rises as she gets more gold.
One of the main reasons Indian women cherish gold is as an economic safety. In India, gold is seen as a dependable investment that grows with time. Women frequently buy gold as a type of savings that may be liquidated during times of financial hardship. This technique is especially prevalent in rural regions, where formal banking is scarce.
Gold is also used extensively in dowry rituals. Dowry, despite legislative bans, is still popular in many regions of India. Families frequently store gold for their daughters' weddings to ensure the bride's financial security in her new home. Although this practice has certain contentious characteristics, it perpetuates the idea of gold as a sign of security.
Aside from its economic and cultural relevance, gold has tremendous aesthetic appeal. Indian ladies have a long history of decorating themselves with intricate gold jewellery. Gold ornaments are used to represent beauty and prestige throughout India, from exquisite temple jewellery in South India to Kundan and Polki styles in North India.
Modern fashion trends have embraced gold in new ways, such as contemporary designs that combine traditional patterns with modern aesthetics. Gold jewellery has been more popular among Bollywood and Indian celebrities, making it a timeless fashion statement.
With globalisation and changing economic landscapes, people's perceptions of gold are shifting. While traditional jewellery remains popular, there is a growing demand for lighter, everyday gold items. Young Indian women increasingly regard gold as both an investment and a fashion piece. Additionally, digital gold investments and gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) have grown in popularity, allowing women to invest in gold without physically holding it.
Despite modernisation, the cultural affinity to gold is still strong. Families continue to pass down treasured objects, sustaining traditions for future generations. Even in an era of greater financial understanding and numerous investment opportunities, gold remains a prized asset.
Indian women's infatuation with gold is profoundly entrenched in history, culture, and economics. It's more than simply an adornment; it represents prosperity, security, and tradition. While trends and tastes may change, the love of gold remains an important aspect of Indian culture. Whether as a cherished legacy, a financial investment, or a cultural requirement, gold continues to shine in the lives of Indian women, reflecting their ancestry and ambitions.
1. Historical Significance of Gold In India
Gold coins were used as currency under the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, which increased their worth as a sign of economic dominance. South Indian temples, such as those in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, became receptacles for gold offerings, a custom that continues to this day. The Mughal and Rajput eras increased the significance of gold in Indian jewellery, which is used in elaborate patterns that show creative brilliance and imperial majesty.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Gold jewellery is also an important aspect of Indian weddings. The ritual of giving brides gold, known as 'Stridhan,' extends back generations. It reflects a woman's financial stability and independence, guaranteeing that she has her own assets in the event of an emergency. In many tribes, a bride's status rises as she gets more gold.
Economic and Social Security.
Gold is also used extensively in dowry rituals. Dowry, despite legislative bans, is still popular in many regions of India. Families frequently store gold for their daughters' weddings to ensure the bride's financial security in her new home. Although this practice has certain contentious characteristics, it perpetuates the idea of gold as a sign of security.
Aesthetic and fashion appeal
Modern fashion trends have embraced gold in new ways, such as contemporary designs that combine traditional patterns with modern aesthetics. Gold jewellery has been more popular among Bollywood and Indian celebrities, making it a timeless fashion statement.
2. The Influence of Global Trends and Changing Preferences
Despite modernisation, the cultural affinity to gold is still strong. Families continue to pass down treasured objects, sustaining traditions for future generations. Even in an era of greater financial understanding and numerous investment opportunities, gold remains a prized asset.
Indian women's infatuation with gold is profoundly entrenched in history, culture, and economics. It's more than simply an adornment; it represents prosperity, security, and tradition. While trends and tastes may change, the love of gold remains an important aspect of Indian culture. Whether as a cherished legacy, a financial investment, or a cultural requirement, gold continues to shine in the lives of Indian women, reflecting their ancestry and ambitions.