Ankle jewellery has been worn across cultures for thousands of years, but not all anklets are the same. If you’ve ever wondered about the difference between a jhanjar and the delicate anklets you see trending every summer, you’re in the right place. In this post we’re breaking down the history, cultural significance, and key differences between the traditional Punjabi jhanjar and the modern Western anklet, and helping you decide which one belongs in your jewellery collection.
What Is a Jhanjar? The Traditional Punjabi Anklet
A jhanjar (also spelled jhanjhar) is a traditional South Asian anklet with deep roots in Punjabi culture. Unlike a simple chain, a jhanjar is an ornate, layered piece of foot jewellery, often featuring intricate metalwork, floral or geometric motifs, and small bells known as ghungroo that produce a soft, musical chime with every step.
The History of the Jhanjar
The jhanjar has been worn by women in the Indian subcontinent for centuries. It is most closely associated with Punjabi culture, spanning both Pakistani Punjab and Indian Punjab, where it holds deep social and ceremonial meaning.
Historically, the jhanjar was a central piece of a bride’s jewellery. It was traditionally gifted to the bride by her family or in-laws as part of her trousseau, symbolising her transition into married life. The gentle sound of the jhanjar was considered auspicious, said to announce the bride’s presence and ward off negative energy.
In classical Punjabi poetry and folk music, tappa, mahiye, and boliyan, the jhanjar is a recurring symbol of love, longing, and femininity. It is far more than an accessory; it is a piece of wearable heritage.
Materials & Craftsmanship
Traditional jhanjars are crafted with exceptional attention to detail. Common materials include:
- Gold or gold-plated brass: the most traditional and auspicious choice
- Silver: widely worn and commonly gifted
- Kundan or meenakari work: used in ornate bridal versions with hand-set stones or enamel detailing
The bells (ghungroo) are a defining feature, hand-attached to produce a distinct, layered sound. Each piece often reflects the craftsmanship of the region it comes from, no two jhanjars are exactly alike.
Who Wears a Jhanjar?
The jhanjar is most commonly worn by Punjabi women, and more broadly across Pakistani and North Indian communities. You will typically see jhanjars at:
- Weddings and mehndi nights, often as part of a full bridal set (alongside bangles, jhumkas, and maang tikka)
- Eid celebrations and cultural festivals such as Baisakhi and Karva Chauth
- Cultural events, melas, and milestone family gatherings
- Everyday wear in more traditional households
For many women, wearing a jhanjar is an act of cultural identity, a quiet, beautiful way of staying connected to their roots, their family, and their heritage.
What Does the Jhanjar Symbolise?
The jhanjar carries several layers of meaning in Punjabi culture:
- Marital status: traditionally associated with married women and brides
- Femininity and grace: the chiming sound was said to enhance the poise of the wearer
- Protection: believed to ward off negative energy and the evil eye
- Cultural pride: a visible expression of Punjabi identity and heritage
What Is a Modern Anklet? The Western Summer Trend
In contrast, the modern anklet is a far more casual piece of jewellery. Typically a delicate chain, sometimes adorned with a charm, bead, or small pendant, it sits lightly around the ankle and is worn primarily for aesthetic appeal.
Anklets surged in Western fashion during the 1970s bohemian era, dipped in and out of trend over the decades, and have firmly re-established themselves as a summer jewellery staple. You see them everywhere during warmer months, on beaches, at festivals, paired with sundresses and sandals.
Features of the Modern Anklet
Modern anklets come in a wide variety of styles
- Materials: sterling silver, gold-fill, gold-plated, beaded, leather cord
- Designs: minimalist chains, charm anklets, layered styles, name anklets, birthstone details
- Purpose: fashion-forward, self-expression, seasonal styling
- Occasions: beach days, summer outings, casual everyday wear, festivals
Modern anklets are lightweight, low-maintenance, and designed to be worn day-to-day. They carry no cultural weight, just a simple, pretty accent that adds something to an outfit without demanding attention.
How to Style an Anklet
The beauty of a modern anklet is its versatility. Try:
- Bare legs and strappy sandals for a classic summer look
- Stacked with two or three fine chains for a layered, boho feel
- Paired with a floaty midi dress for something more elevated
- Worn solo on a casual day when you want jewellery without effort
Jhanjar vs Anklets: Key Differences at a Glance
|
Feature |
Jhanjar |
Modern Anklet |
|
Origin |
South Asian (Punjabi/Pakistani) |
Western fashion |
|
Style |
Ornate, layered, bells |
Minimal, delicate chain |
|
Material |
Gold, silver, kundan |
Silver, gold-fill, beads |
|
Sound |
Yes: soft chime from bells |
Usually silent |
|
Occasions |
Weddings, Eid, festivals |
Everyday, summer, casual |
|
Symbolism |
High: cultural & marital |
Low: fashion & style |
|
Who wears it |
Punjabi/South Asian women |
Anyone, cross-cultural |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone wear a jhanjar?
Absolutely. While the jhanjar holds deep meaning within Punjabi and South Asian culture, there are no rules about who can wear one. Many women outside of the community wear jhanjars simply because they love the sound, the craftsmanship, and the beauty of the piece. If you’re wearing one respectfully and appreciating its heritage, that’s what matters.
Is a jhanjar only for brides?
Not at all. While the jhanjar is a traditional part of bridal jewellery, Punjabi women wear them at all kinds of celebrations, Eid, Baisakhi, family gatherings, and even as elevated everyday jewellery. Today, many women wear jhanjars as a way of expressing their cultural identity year-round.
What’s the difference between a payal and a jhanjar?
A payal is the Hindi/Urdu word for an anklet, it is a broader term that covers many styles. A jhanjar specifically refers to the Punjabi style of anklet, which typically features bells and more elaborate, layered detailing. All jhanjars are payals, but not all payals are jhanjars.
Which should I buy: a jhanjar or an anklet?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want something meaningful, ornate, and rooted in tradition, go for a jhanjar. If you want something light, versatile, and easy to style day-to-day, a modern anklet is perfect. Many women own both and choose based on the occasion.
Shop Ankle Jewellery at ArtByZakia
At ArtByZakia, we carry a growing range of ankle jewellery, from traditional-inspired jhanjars to modern gold-plated anklets designed for everyday wear. Each piece is crafted to be worn, loved, and passed on.
Whether you’re shopping for a wedding, Eid, or just want to add something beautiful to your daily look, we have something for you.