Flowers are often used for decoration and to add a beautiful touch to various things, including hair. Throughout history, people have adorned their hair with flowers, and this practice continues today. But what are flowers in hair called? In South Asia, women wear garlands of flowers as a traditional hair accessory. These garlands are called Gajra, and they are an integral part of South Asian culture, adding grace and elegance to the wearer’s appearance.
What is a Gajra?
A Gajra is a type of flower garland that is used to decorate hair. It is made up of several flowers, usually Jasmine, that are strung together by a string or thread. This delicate floral accessory is an integral part of traditional South Asian attire for women. It is commonly worn on special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and other cultural events.
History of Gajra
The tradition of wearing flowers in hair dates back to ancient times when flowers were considered to be sacred. In Hindu mythology and culture, flowers are regarded as symbols of beauty, purity, and good omen. According to the ancient text “Kama Sutra,” flowers were commonly used by women to entice their partners and enhance their beauty.
Gajra has been a part of South Asian culture for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent and later spread to other countries in South Asia. The use of flowers in Indian culture can be traced back to the Vedic period, which dates back to around 1500 BCE.
During the Mughal era, Gajras were worn by the royal women as a part of their attire. Over time, this tradition spread to common people and became a popular hair accessory. Today, Gajra remains an essential element of South Asian festivals and weddings.
Types of Flowers used in a Gajra
Jasmine is the most commonly used flower in a Gajra. The fresh scent of Jasmine flowers creates an alluring fragrance that enhances the beauty of the wearer. Other flowers commonly used in Gajra include rose, marigold, tuberose, and mogra.
These flowers are often chosen according to the preferences of the wearer or the event. For example, yellow-orange marigold flowers are used to celebrate the festival of Diwali, while red and white roses are commonly used in weddings to symbolize love and purity.
How to wear Gajra?
Gajra is worn in different ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some common ways to wear a Gajra:
- Wear it as a bun- Just wrap the Gajra around a low bun and secure it with bobby pins.
- Pin it behind the ear- If you want to wear the Gajra on one side, then pin it behind your ear.
- As a half-ponytail- For a more casual look, wear Gajra with a half-ponytail.
- As a headband- You can also wear a Gajra as a headband. Just wrap it around your head and secure it with bobby pins.
Care for Gajra
Gajra is a delicate accessory, and it requires special care to stay fresh and last longer. Here are some tips to take care of your Gajra:
- Store it in the fridge- To keep the Gajra fresh, store it in a zip-lock bag in the fridge.
- Sprinkle some water- Gajra needs moisture to stay fresh. Sprinkle water on the flowers before wearing them.
- Keep it away from heat- Avoid exposing the Gajra to direct sunlight or heat as it can cause the flowers to wilt.
Conclusion
Gajra is an integral part of South Asian culture and history. It reflects the beauty and grace of traditional attire. The use of flowers in hair is a timeless tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. The fact that a simple Gajra can add so much beauty and elegance to a person’s appearance is a testament to the power of this tradition. It’s no wonder that the Gajra has stood the test of time and continues to be a popular hair accessory even today.
FAQ
When a woman wears a flower in her hair?
Wearing a flower in the hair can be a common sight among women, especially during Hawaiian-themed events or parties. But did you know that the placement of that flower can also communicate a message about a woman’s relationship status?
Traditionally, if you wear a flower behind your right ear, it indicates that you are single and available. On the other hand, wearing a flower behind your left ear implies that you are in a committed relationship, and unavailable. This custom originates from Hawaiian culture and has become popularized as a way to signify a woman’s romantic status.
However, it is important to note that in modern times, this custom may not hold true for everyone. Some women may wear a flower in their hair simply as a fashion statement, or to complement their outfit, without intending to communicate any specific message about their relationship status.
Nevertheless, wearing a flower in the hair is a beautiful way to bring a touch of nature and color to any occasion. And whether you choose to wear it behind your right ear, left ear, or simply as a decoration, it can add a sense of beauty and grace to your look.