A Nath is a traditional nose ring or ornament that is worn by women in South Asia, specifically in India and the Indian subcontinent. Naths can differ significantly in size, form and meaning across India. Every different nath from the simple Mukkuthi or Mugu Battu of South India, to the large bridal Naths of Punjab and Rajasthan all represent different regional identities and craft traditions that still exist today and intermingle with contemporary fashion. Collectively, the variety of Naths represents a cross-section of the cultural diversity of India.
What is the History of Nath?
The Nath has been around for thousands of years. It is an artefact of Indian culture and tradition that has a thousand layers. Examples of nose ornaments are found in early Vedic literature in rituals of social identity and beauty. Temples and other carvings early on show images of women with Naths. This shows that wearing the Nath was both aesthetic but also representative of status.
- In its evolution, the nath was influenced by various dynasties and cultures. Characteristics of Naths changed over time, from the Mughal era, where the Naths became very ornate, to modern times, where they turned subtle.
- The Rajput and Maratha history of wearing large, bold, and monumental Naths exhibited grandeur, while artisans in every other region of India added their own flair in finishing techniques, decoration, whether in gold with gems, or silver, working. Women would wear large denomination pieces that have become an integral part of bridal clothing.
- In any case, the evolution and significance of the nath, along with the ornament above it, was as a cultural object that has changed in meaning and relevance over time, reflecting dynasties, regional tastes, and the structure of adornment in everyday Indian society.
How Many Naths are there in India?
Every state in India has its own form of nath: Let’s take a look at some of the major Nath design from various regions of India.
1. Maharashtrian Nath
The Maharashtrian nath is crescent-shaped and often embellished with pearls and colored stones, and is one of the important bridal ornaments. Variants exist, such as the Peshwai Nath and Brahmani Nath, which reflect the historical and cultural customs.
Today, it is still not uncommon to see the Nath proudly worn during a wedding ceremony, or at festivals, Gudi Padwa and Ganesh Chaturthi, in the form of poorer imitations made of artificial or ornate stones.
2. Punjabi Nath
If there is one word to describe the Punjabi bridal nath, it is ‘extravagant’. It is a large hoop that sometimes covers the entire cheek, attached to either the ear or hair with a chain. The Punjabi Nath is not simply bridal jewellery but more an exposé of the cultural roots of the community.
3. Rajasthani Nath
The Rajasthani nath stands out as large and elaborate, made in meenakari, kundan and stone, representing the royal heritage of the region. Other styles include Nathni, Laung and Latkan Nath, which demonstrate the variety of styles across multiple communities.The nath remains popular in current culture and is often employed in films depicting Rajput royalty, such as Padmaavat.
4. Himachali Nath (Bulaki)
Quirky yet bold, the Himachali Bulaki is different because it hangs over the upper lip. While many of the bridal Naths have some royal gold work, this nath piece is rather simple and reflective of the Himalayan culture.
5. Bengali Nath (Nathni)
Minimalist but stylish, the Bengali bride’s nath is usually a large, simple hoop of gold. It corresponds to Bengal’s love of elegance. The Nathni is adorned by brides, and the bridal look is incomplete with the same.
6. South Indian Nath (Mukkuthi / Besari)
In the southern part of India, nath is called Mukkuthi or Besari. A Mukkuthi or Besari is a stud, often with diamonds on it, worn on one or both nostrils. Usually, brides wear it for auspicious occasions, but smaller Naths are commonly worn daily.
7. Gujarati Nath
Gujarat’s Bori Nath is detailed and circular, typically with pearls encrusted on it. With a chain connecting to the ear, the Nath enhances the bridal attire, adding the right touch of grandeur while weaving in cultural heritage.
8. Modern Incarnations
The nath has changed significantly in the 21st century. Nose rings, diamond studs, and septum rings have all now become a global fashion statement. Young women today wear it not only as a part of a ritual but a regular occurrence and fashion statement.
List of Nath from Different States
| Region | Signature Nath Style |
|---|---|
| Maharashtra | Peshwai, Brahmani |
| Punjab | Kokka, large hoop Nath |
| Rajasthan | Nathni, Laung, Latkan |
| Himachal | Bulaki |
| Bengal | Phul Nathni, Hoop Nath |
| South India | Mukkuthi, Mugu Battu, Besari |
| Gujarat | Bori Nath |
Nath Symbolism and Significance
- Nath or nose rings have long been represented as a symbol of marriage and womanhood.
- In many traditions, piercing the left nostril is believed to be associated with fertility.
- The size, material, and design of a Nath are seen as a reflection of social status in society.
- Many families value Naths as heirlooms, handed down through generations.
- Recently, Nath has become a contemporary trendy accessory, rather than a ritualistic item.
Nath and Contemporary Relevance
In contemporary times, nath has transcended from a mere ritualistic item to a fashion statement. It is now re-established in the realm of fashion and popular culture. The nath is not limited to marriages; women are now wearing Naths as an accessory statement during festivals, cultural experiences, and even when going to the grocery store. The rise of minimalistic nose pins and diamond-studded adornments, and septum rings has become a pivotal point of reference for what are traditionally known in their original forms as Naths.
- The spectacular ‘nath’ look of Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in Jodhaa Akbar, Deepika Padukone in Padmaavat, Alia Bhatt in Kalank, and Anushka Sharma in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil captured the imaginations of millions of fans.
- Language and terminology such as “Nath” have evolved into language we practically hear and see everywhere in the so-called global market, and we are also severely reflecting a wide acceptance of Indian styles of ornamentation.
- Social media has sped up the evolution of this trend with influencers and celebrities displaying the nath at arm’s length. The Nath is now being photographed and displayed, making it a genuine symbolic example of heritage, regaining its relevance again.
Final Thoughts
Each style and type of nath, from the Kokka of Punjab, to the sleek and beautiful Naths of South India, the understated ones in Bengal, each tells a story of its region and people. And while fashion is changing in all parts of the world, nothing compares to the nath. We come across it every day. It reminds us that ornaments in India are not ornaments; they are traditions keeping alive the echoes of the past into the present.
FAQs on Types of Nath
