Anklets
Payal Guide: Meaning, Styles and How to Wear Anklets
Ghungroo or pearl, one ankle or both, silver or gold-tone. Everything to know about wearing a payal for festivals, weddings and every day.
By The Priskel Studio 2 min read
The short answerA payal is a traditional Indian anklet, worn on one or both ankles. Choose a delicate pearl or chain payal for daily and festive wear, and one with ghungroo bells if you want the soft sound with every step. Wear it with ankle-length outfits and open sandals so it shows.
What a payal means
Payal, also called pajeb or jhanjhar in different regions, is one of the traditional adornments of Indian dressing. The gentle chime of ghungroo bells has long been associated with festivity and celebration, and a payal is a common part of bridal and festive looks.
Styles of payal
| Style | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fine chain | Minimal, barely there | Every day |
| Pearl | Soft and pretty | Festivals, mehendi, day functions |
| Ghungroo | Bells that chime | Sangeet, Navratri, dancing |
| Broad or bridal | Heavy, detailed | The wedding day |
How to wear one
- Hemlines: ankle-length lehengas, cropped trousers, or a saree draped to show the feet.
- Footwear: open sandals or juttis; avoid closed shoes that rub.
- One or two: a pair for festive looks, one ankle for a modern, casual feel.
- Match the hands: pair a ghungroo payal with a ghungroo haathphool like the Chhanak for sangeet.
Silver or gold-tone?
In many families payal are traditionally silver, and some customs avoid gold on the feet. Gold-tone payal are increasingly popular for festive outfits with gold zari. Follow your family's preference; both look beautiful. The Mogra Pearl Payal combines gold-tone floral motifs with pearls.
Care
Payal sit close to the ground, so dust and water reach them first. UTSAV payal are brass-based and hand-finished, and not waterproof: take them off before bathing or walking through water, wipe them dry, and store them flat in their pouch. Each carries a 6-month Finish Promise.
Questions we hear often
Should I wear a payal on one ankle or both?
Both for traditional and festive looks; one ankle for a casual, modern style.
What is the difference between a payal and an anklet?
Payal is the traditional Indian anklet, often with bells or pearls; anklet is the general term.
Can I wear a payal every day?
A fine, waterproof anklet suits daily wear. Festive payal are best kept for occasions.
Shop UTSAV payal.
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