Growing up in Uttarakhand, I have always been intrigued by our Pahadi Nath. Pahadi Nath is a large-nose-ring which is usually worn by brides at the time of their wedding. For me, this piece of jewellery always meant "fashion" but my grandmother explained that the "Nath" is more than just fashion. It is a representative of our culture, tradition and heritage.
My grandmother remarked,"Piercings have been a part of the Indian culture since the time of Vedas. With the new generation, these piercings have attained a different meaning although their cultural importance remains". So, I decided to research more on this topic and found out that our day-to-day piercings have some inherent meaning that aim not only at cultural preservation but also impart health benefits. Let's take a look:
Nose Piercing (Nath)
The nose piercing, known as "Nath" in Hindi stands out as a feature of culture. It carries spiritual value, commonly adorned by married women to signify their marital status. In teachings piercing the nostril is thought to alleviate childbirth pains and menstrual discomfort. Within Hinduism the nose piercing is linked with Parvati, the goddess of marriage believed to enhance a woman’s grace and fertility.
Ear Piercings
Ear piercings rank among the forms of body adornment, in India. In Hindu traditions ear piercing is often conducted as a rite known as "Karnavedha " typically performed during childhood. It is associated with health benefits.
Other Piercings
Certain customs involve ear piercings, each symbolizing facets of life or deities. In communities septum piercings hold historical importance especially in the Northeast region, where they can symbolize wealth and status. Although common nowadays tongue piercings have roots, in tantric traditions and were thought to heighten spiritual awareness. Within Hinduism piercings carry more than value; they often carry profound spiritual significance.
Certain piercings are linked to Hindu deities. Some view piercings as a means of purification believing they can repel energies and safeguard the wearer. Piercing ceremonies within Hindu traditions mark life transitions, acting as rites of passage from childhood to adulthood. These rituals serve as family gatherings that reinforce ties and pass down customs to younger generations.
While traditional attitudes towards piercings persist in parts of India contemporary society has witnessed some changes. For Indians piercings have evolved into a mode of fashion and self-expression that may diverge from their traditional spiritual or cultural meanings. In settings there is a rising inclination towards reinvigorating piercing styles with a modern touch blending heritage, with contemporary trends.
Despite the influence of modernization several families continue to uphold piercing customs for children’s ear piercings. Piercings hold a meaning in culture especially within Hinduism showcasing the profound link, between body adornment, spiritual beliefs and cultural heritage.
As India grapples with balancing tradition and progress the tradition of piercing endures as an symbolic element of its cultural fabric. It stands as a tribute, to the timeless traditions that have evolved and retained relevance in today’s world.