Glass Bangles : A traditional ornament of Pakistan

HYDERABAD-  With the arrival of holy month of Ramazan, happiness, and joy can be seen all over the place. Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid after fasting for the whole month of Ramazan. Celebrating Eid at the end of this month, a woman simply cannot miss the beautiful and delicate glass bangles while living in Sub-continent especially.



Bangles are rigid bracelets, usually made from metal, wood, glass or plastic. They are traditional adornment worn mostly by South Asian women in India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Bangles have been an integral part of women fashion since prehistoric times. The bangles were made from sea shell, copper, bronze, gold, agate, chalcedony, etc. have been excavated from multiple archaeological sites throughout India. A figurine of a dancing girl wearing bangles on her left arm has been excavated from Mohenjo-Daro (2600 BC). It shows that women have been fond of decorating their wrists and arms with ornaments since long times.



Bangles are available in different colors and materials and sizes also all over Pakistan. Bangles are worn by almost all females of all ages on special occasions like wedding, Eid, and other festivals. Bangles can easily be purchased from the shops, stalls and also some local artisans sell the bangles and they are commonly known as ‘banjarans”, who walk from place to place to sell colorful bangles. On special occasions, especially on Eid, their business shows an upsurge as they ‘succeed’ to persuade as many customers — in certain localities, to try and buy their bangles.

let's have a look at how glass bangles are being made:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bgJ8BTUPsQ

There are two basic types of bangles: a solid cylinder type; and a split, cylindrical spring opening/closing type. The primary distinguishing factor between these is the material used to make the bangles. This may vary from anything from glass to jade to metal to lac and even rubber or plastic. One factor that adds to the price of the bangles is the artifacts or the work done further on the metal. This includes embroidery or small glass pieces or paintings or even small hangings that are attached to the bangles. The rareness of a color and its unique value also increase the value.



Glass bangles coated with glitter and with ghungroo hanging to them are liked the most by young girls. Among the recent entrants are the rubber bangles that are worn more like a wristband by youngsters while the plastic ones are there to add a trendy look.


Bangles have a very sentimental value. In fact, to a woman bangle is not only an ornament it is also an important part of womanhood. Bangles are an important part of South Asian culture and tradition. They add charm and elegance of a wrist and add beauty. A gift of bangles given by friend or lover conveys the message of love and compassion.