Traditional Maharashtrian Jewellery Names: Thushi, Kolhapuri Saaj, Bugadi & More
Thushi, kolhapuri saaj, bugadi, vaki, patlya — a friendly guide to the names and meaning of traditional Maharashtrian jewellery.
Maharashtra's jewellery tradition is rich, elegant and full of meaning. Whether you are planning a Maharashtrian bridal look, dressing up for Ganeshotsav or simply love traditional design, knowing the names helps you shop — and style — with confidence.
Necklaces
Thushi
A close-fitting choker made of tightly strung small gold beads, often on a fabric base. Strongly associated with Kolhapur and western Maharashtra, the thushi is a favourite with nauvari sarees.
Kolhapuri saaj
A signature Maharashtrian necklace with a central pendant and a series of small charms — traditionally around 21 — that carry auspicious meanings. It is closely associated with married women and bridal wear.
Tanmani
A pearl choker, usually with multiple strands and a central pendant — graceful and timeless.
Chinchpeti
A choker of pearls arranged in a grid-like pattern. The name is often linked to the tamarind (chinch) seed shape of its design.
Mohan mal
A long necklace of rounded gold beads in one or more strands — classic, simple and regal.
Putli haar / Laxmi haar
Necklaces made of gold coins, often featuring the image of Goddess Lakshmi — considered auspicious and popular in bridal trousseaus.
Mangalsutra
The sacred necklace of black beads, often with two small cups (vati) in the traditional Maharashtrian design.
Ear and nose jewellery
Bugadi
A small ornament worn on the upper ear cartilage — one of the most distinctive Maharashtrian pieces.
Kudi
Traditional stud earrings, often with a cluster of pearls or stones.
Nath
The iconic Maharashtrian nose ring framed with pearls. Read our detailed Maharashtrian nath guide.
Hand and arm jewellery
Vaki (armlet)
Worn on the upper arm, the vaki adds a regal touch to sleeveless or short-sleeved blouses.
Patlya and tode
Patlya are flat gold bangles, traditionally worn with green glass bangles by brides. Tode are thicker, kada-style bangles.
Waist and feet
Kamarpatta
An ornamental waist belt that holds the saree pleats beautifully — especially striking with a nauvari.
Jodvi
Silver toe rings worn by married women.
Styling a complete Maharashtrian look
A classic combination for festivals: nath + thushi + green bangles with patlya + chandrakor bindi + nauvari or paithani saree.
Handmade alternatives for every budget
Traditional gold jewellery is precious and expensive. Handmade versions — made with beads, pearls and kundan — let you enjoy the same look for festivals, dance performances, photoshoots and gifting. Browse Maharashtrian jewellery at Saaj Alankaracha, or learn to make it yourself in our jewellery making classes, available online across Maharashtra — from Pune and Mumbai to Nagpur, Nanded and Parbhani.
Frequently asked questions
What is a thushi?
A thushi is a close-fitting Maharashtrian choker made of tightly strung small gold beads, closely associated with Kolhapur.
Where is a bugadi worn?
A bugadi is worn on the upper cartilage of the ear.
What jewellery does a Maharashtrian bride wear?
Common pieces include the nath, thushi, kolhapuri saaj or mohan mal, mangalsutra, patlya with green bangles, vaki, kamarpatta and jodvi.
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