Sunil Phetawale

1. Must-Have Wedding Accessories for Grooms

a. Turban (Pagdi)

The turban, or "pagdi," is one of the most important accessories in a groom's attire. It symbolizes royalty, dignity, and respect. Depending on the region, the style, color, and design of the turban vary. In many parts of India, the groom wears a turban as a sign of honor, with some families adding a decorative brooch to enhance its beauty.

• How to Wear: The turban is worn on the groom’s head, with the length and fabric adjusted based on personal preference and regional customs.
• Styling Tips: Choose a turban that complements your outfit’s color scheme. For example, red, maroon, or gold turbans are popular choices for traditional weddings.
• Cultural Significance: The turban is a sign of the groom's respect for the elders and symbolizes the transition into married life.

b. Kalgi (Head Ornament)

Worn on the turban or directly on the groom's forehead, the kalgi is an ornamental piece made of metal, usually adorned with pearls, diamonds, or other precious stones. It is a royal accessory that enhances the groom’s look.

• How to Wear: The kalgi is attached to the turban or worn on the forehead, typically placed above the center of the forehead.
• Styling Tips: The kalgi can be customized to match the groom’s outfit and the wedding’s theme. Opt for traditional designs if your wedding is classic or contemporary ones for a modern twist.
• Cultural Significance: The kalgi signifies the groom’s regal stature and is a symbol of pride and honor.

c. Sehra

The Sehra is a traditional floral ornament that is worn by the groom during the wedding ceremony, especially in North India. It is a long string of flowers or beads, draped across the groom’s face and turban, often covering his forehead and eyes.

• How to Wear: The Sehra is typically worn by grooms in North India during the wedding procession. It hangs over the groom's face, usually attached to the turban.
• Styling Tips: The Sehra is made from fresh flowers like roses, jasmine, or marigold, or it can be made from artificial beads or pearls to match the wedding theme.
• Cultural Significance: The Sehra symbolizes the groom’s entry into a new phase of life. It also wards off evil spirits and protects the groom from negativity during the wedding ceremony.

d. Sherwani

The Sherwani is the groom's primary outfit for the wedding day. A long, embroidered coat-like garment worn over the kurta and churidar, it is often richly embellished with traditional Indian designs such as zari or stone work.

• How to Wear: The Sherwani is worn over a kurta and churidar or a salwar. It can be buttoned or tied with a traditional rope.
• Styling Tips: Sherwanis come in various fabrics like silk, velvet, and brocade. Choose the one that best complements your body type and wedding theme.
• Cultural Significance: The Sherwani is a symbol of respect and dignity for the groom. It represents traditional masculinity and royal lineage.

e. Wedding Jewelry

Grooms wear wedding jewelry to symbolize prosperity, love, and commitment. Wedding jewelry for grooms includes rings, bracelets, chains, and cufflinks. While the jewelry choices for grooms may not be as elaborate as for brides, they add a regal touch to the groom's attire.

• How to Wear: Wedding jewelry such as a diamond ring, bracelet, or chain can be worn along with the Sherwani or suit.
• Styling Tips: Choose jewelry that complements the color of your outfit. Gold jewelry works well with rich, warm tones, while platinum or silver suits cooler tones.
• Cultural Significance: Jewelry is a sign of wealth, status, and a promise of a prosperous future in the marriage.

f. Mojaris or Juttis

Mojaris or Juttis are traditional Indian footwear worn by grooms, especially during the wedding ceremony. These shoes are often adorned with embroidery, sequins, or stones to match the groom’s outfit.

• How to Wear: Mojaris or Juttis are slip-on shoes that are worn with the Sherwani, kurta, or other traditional attire.
• Styling Tips: Choose a design that complements the embroidery or color of your Sherwani. Gold, silver, or deep red are popular color choices.
• Cultural Significance: These shoes are often seen as a symbol of respect and tradition, showcasing the groom’s readiness to step into a new journey of life.