The mangalsutra, vermillion and toe-rings are most typical of many married Indian women. Something that's been celebrated through the ages.. in practice, by media and the tinsel town. Many a times have I read it and discussed among my peers as to how these would give a sense of comfort to an ever-vulnerable Indian woman.
Many a time, I have myself wanted to have these amulets. Many a time have I faked that I do possess them. Even today, I got myself a pair of toe-rings and some red bindi to help me in one of my future expeditions, wherein my being a married woman, can easily gain me some respect and security.I was even thinking of going a bit overboard with a couple of bangles. All I could get were some glass bangles, that I don't like since they break easily. The image of shattering glass bangles, sent a shudder along my spine, "Isn't it the same imagery that epitomizes a widow?"
For once, it shocked me to think how a widow would be treated by the malicious public. Does she necessarily have to shave off the hair on her head and wear only white? What will happen when the hair grows back? What'll happen when she starts wearing other "light-colored" clothes as well? Wont she look like any other unmarried damsel, given that she's been widowed at an early age? Does she have to have a suckling infant at her bosom to guarantee her security and confidence to meet the world???
Many a time, I have myself wanted to have these amulets. Many a time have I faked that I do possess them. Even today, I got myself a pair of toe-rings and some red bindi to help me in one of my future expeditions, wherein my being a married woman, can easily gain me some respect and security.I was even thinking of going a bit overboard with a couple of bangles. All I could get were some glass bangles, that I don't like since they break easily. The image of shattering glass bangles, sent a shudder along my spine, "Isn't it the same imagery that epitomizes a widow?"
For once, it shocked me to think how a widow would be treated by the malicious public. Does she necessarily have to shave off the hair on her head and wear only white? What will happen when the hair grows back? What'll happen when she starts wearing other "light-colored" clothes as well? Wont she look like any other unmarried damsel, given that she's been widowed at an early age? Does she have to have a suckling infant at her bosom to guarantee her security and confidence to meet the world???
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