Uttarakhands Kandhar Village imposes limit on gold jewelry worn by married women at weddings, family functions

DEHRADUN: The residents of Kandhar village in the tribal region of Jaunsar-Bawar, Uttarakhand, have enacted a strict social bylaw limiting the number of gold ornaments worn by married women during weddings and family functions. This was done to curb spiraling expenditure and the culture of ostentation gripping social ceremonies. The decision, taken unanimously in a community meeting, aims to alleviate the crushing financial burden placed on poorer families by the relentless pursuit of lavish wedding traditions and heavy jewelry displays. Under the village's new 'self-rule', married women will be permitted to wear only three specific pieces of gold jewelry: a nose stud ('phuuli'), earrings ('bundey'), and a wedding necklace ('mangalsutra'). All other heavy or additional ornaments are strictly prohibited. The rising cost of gold has made it impossible for poorer families to keep up. Emulating the wealthy often forces families into debt or depletes their savings, explained a village elder during the proceedings. Marriage is a sacred ritual, not a stage for showing off. The residents believe that true equality in society can only be achieved by dismantling the walls of display. The primary objectives of this groundbreaking initiative are to reduce conspicuous consumption between rich and poor households, curb unnecessary spending, and foster simplicity and social cohesion. Speaking to TNIE , Bharat Singh Rana of Tuini told, Jaunsar-Bawar is a treasure trove of distinct ethnic communities and traditional practices. This new initiative seeks to reduce economic disparity and promote simplicity in marital celebrations. To ensure compliance, the community has attached a significant penalty. Any woman found violating the new guideline will be subject to a hefty fine of Rs 50,000. This rule is mandatory for every household in Kandhar village. This step by Kandhar village is not just about limiting jewelry; it is a message of social revolution, noted Surendra Singh Chauhan of Chakrata. When cities increasingly view weddings as a showcase for prestige and wealth, this small mountain village sends a clear message: 'Marriage is a celebration of relationships, not an exhibition of wealth. Simplicity is the true honor.' Jaunsar-Bawar, a hilly region in Uttarakhand's Garhwal division, is known for its unique culture and breathtaking natural beauty. The region is home to the Jaunsari people, who are traditionally agriculturists and semi-pastoralists. The region is divided into two areas - the lower Jaunsar region and the upper, snow-covered Bawar region, bordered by the Yamuna and Tons rivers.