|
|
|
|
Although nose rings are very common in India,
they actually originated in the Middle East. It was only during the 16th
century that the practice of piercing the nose filtered into India, for
ancient Indian civilization has not recorded any evidence of its existence
either in the sculptures at Ajanta and Ellora, the excavations of Harappa
and Mohenjadaro or during the reign of the Kushan and Gupta dynasties. Nose rings seem to be associated with the Hindu
religion itself. However, the fact that Muslim ladies and children also wear
nathunis (nose rings) belies the fact at least to a certain extent.
|
Nose rings first made their appearance when the mughals ruled India. These
nose rings were not rings in the real sense of the word. They were minute
ornamental patterns depicting a tiny flower with a thin stem, which entered
the left nostril, and was held in place by a screw on the inside. These were
sometimes decorated with delicate chains or fragile pendants.
|
|
The nose rings
were made either of gold or diamond and were in the form of a small ball or
a small flat disc. The type of nose ring is determined by the area to be
adorned. If it is the nostril, studs are common, if it is the septum, a
circular barbell is worn and if it is the bridge of the nose between the
eyes, a straight barbell adorns the nose. Sometimes the Septum rings are so
large that they cover a portion of the mouth and often come in the way while
eating. The nostril rings also vie for attention. Some of them are so
heavily ornamented with pearls and precious stones that they have to be
supported by fine chains, which are attached to the hair. The Bulak which
is quite common in Madhya Pradesh is a perfect example of this. |
Stainless steel, 14\18 carat gold, titanium, nickel or niobium are the
metals that nose rings are generally made from. Nickel can cause allergic
reactions often in the form of rashes or sensation of burning around the
area of the nose ring. So remember, if it does not suit you, do consider an
alternative metal. Sometimes, gems are glued on to the nose rings. The
chances are that the gems will fall out sooner or later, so ensure that they
are mechanically set.
Strangely enough, calves are also made to wear nose rings. However, the
purpose is not ornamental. They are meant to successfully wean the calf. The
nose rings interfere with the feeding process frustrating both the calf and
the cow. When this happens often, the calf gets used to the idea of not
being able to feed and is successfully weaned without going through the
trauma of separation.
Nose rings in
Indian fashion. Author M.Swami.
 |
|
