According to Hindu customs, there are 16 adornments or 16 Shringar for married women which enhance her beauty and charm and are beneficial to health. Few significant ones which are worn by married women on daily basis are Kumkum(Bindi), nose ring, earrings, mangalsutra, anklets, Sindoor(Vermilion), bangles, necklace, Kamar band, Bajuband and the toe ring. These 16 ornaments showcase the married status of a woman. Today, we are telling you the significance of a special adornment of Indian women i.e, Toering.

Wearing toe ring is a tradition in India among married woman.It is known as Bichwa in the northern state of India including Uttrakhand whereas in a southern state, it is popularly called as Metti and is an essential and significant ornament for Indian married women.This ornament is worn by women in both the feet. These Bichiyas are usually made of silver and worn in pairs on the second and third toe of both the feet. Bichiya or toe ring comes in various shapes and sizes intricated with beautiful designs. Bichwe is not allowed to be made in gold as in accordance with Hindu religion gold holds a respected place and may not be worn below the waist by Hindus.

In north India, whether its Punjab, Haryana or Uttarakhand, this beautiful ornament is given by the maternal uncle of the bride as a gift on her wedding day. maternal uncle places the toe ring on the bride’s toe as a tradition before the Saptapadi. In some states, the husband gives it as a gift to his bride. A toe ring is a symbol of married woman it is prohibited for the unmarried women to wear them. Toe rings symbolize the double status of a woman as a sister and wife. When either of them passes away one set of toe ring is removed as these are worn in pairs. In some religion, it’s a tradition that once the toe rings are placed, it can only be changed on the day of Karwa Chauth, not before than that.

Toe ring also plays a significant role in Ramayana. When Devi Sita is kidnapped by Ravana than she threw her toe ring on the way for the identification so that Lord Rama could find her. Hence from that time toe ring is an essential ornament of the jewelry box of an India woman. Toe rings given as a gift is considered auspicious for an Indian Woman. Toe rings are also worn by men in South India in great toe. These rings are rarely closed circles with open hoops so that they could be easily removed.