The intricate composition of South Indian cultural diversity finds expression through the bridal dress wherein there are many elements of piousness embodied in the combination of gold, silk, and religious images. Within the richness of our Kanchipuram fabric and the delicacy of our Temple jewellery, there exists one small ornament, which is an essential part of our bridal dress. The Mookuthi (also called Mookuthi in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka) is a gorgeous ornament that embodies grace and beauty. Also, this is referred to as a symbol of a woman’s marital status as well as her cultural identity.

Women in South India have worn nose rings for centuries due to their connection to the emotional and physical health of women through the Vedic tradition. The Chola and Vijayanagara ruling families commissioned master goldsmiths to make intricate designs with "Kempu" stones. Each piece of jewellery has its own history, and reflects the beautiful aesthetics of the ancient goddesses and queens. 

The nose pin represents both the transformation of a bride into a new life, and also incorporates a spiritual significance along with an unparalleled elegance, whether it’s a single sparkling diamond glowing in the morning sun or an ornate gold hoop.

The Cultural Significance: Why the Nose Pin is Essential for Brides

Wearing a nose ring holds great importance for South Indian Brides. It is not just a fashion statement, it is a rite of passage. On their wedding day, a bride will wear a traditional nose ring as part of her bridal solah shringar (sixteen traditional adornments) because of the impact that this symbol has in regards to her spirituality, physiology and regional identity. Why is the nose ring such an important ornament? To answer this question, we will look towards the stars and ancient texts about healing.

The Relationship to the Divine: Significance of a Goddess

As per South Indian tradition, wearing a nose ring is intrinsically linked to the Goddess, Parvati, who is the wife of Lord Shiva, and represents all of the characteristics of a Suvasini (woman whose husband is living). Parvati embodies the ultimate source of power: fertility, marital bliss, and domestic harmony. The act of wearing a traditional nose ring on their wedding day allows brides to seek the blessings of Parvati, as they move into a life of partnership and sacred union. In many South Indian communities, if a bride does not have a nose ring, it would be considered an incomplete expression of her divine energy. Many South Indian communities believe that wearing this ornament acts as a protective talisman, giving brides additional protection as they leave their families’ homes to begin their married lives with their husbands.

How Ayurveda Views Your Health & Wellness

While there is a distinct spiritual significance of these nose piercings, from an Ayurvedic perspective, there is also a fascinating scientific explanation. The area where one finds a nose piercing ( typically referred to as the left nostril) is associated in Ayurveda with the female reproductive anatomy. There are nerve endings that come from this area of the nose that connect with the uterus as well as the menstrual cycle. When a woman wears a nose ring, it applies a gentle pressure to those acupressure points and traditionally eases the labour experience and lessens pain associated with menstruation. Therefore when looking at this through the lens of modern science, it appears much more culturally than physically; however, for a South Indian bride, this is still seen today as a beautiful way to bridge the gap between traditional wisdom and elegant physical presentation.

Each Region of South India Has Its Own Unique Design for Nose Rings

Despite the importance placed on nose rings as a symbol of bride-to-be in South India, each State within South India has developed a distinctive style for their respective bridal nose rings. Each style was influenced by history, geography and culture to be unique to each State.

Nose Rings from Tamil Nadu: The most popular choices for brides in Tamil Nadu include either the Besari (a large decorative stud with rubies/diamonds) or the Pullakku (a small drop-style ring) worn through the septum of the nose.

Nose Rings from Kerala: The traditional nose ring of Malayali brides is the Mukkuthi, which embodies the ethos of simplicity that distinguishes Malayali culture. The 'Mukkuthi' may be made of pure gold with the addition of a flower made of thin gold wire, or it may be made of a single teardrop pearl and often matches the cream-and-golden color of the bride's Kasavu saree.

Nose Rings from Karnataka & Andhra Pradesh: Women of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have a more elaborate style of nose rings. In these regions, the Nathini is more common, and it consists of a larger hoop that may be decorated with pearls or emeralds. The Nathini represents the elaborate and lavish culture of the Deccan royal family.

Each of these regional variations of the South Indian bridal nose ring is emblematic of that State's rich heritage and culture.

Read more: Gold Nose Pins 2025 – Modern Nose Pin Designs, Styling & Care Guide

Iconic South Indian Nose Ring Designs for the Modern Bride

Made With Pure 925 Silver

The Mookkuthi Nostalgic yet Unique

Mookkuti, which means ‘nose ring’ in Tamil, has its own unique heritage and significance in South Indian bridal fashion. The Mookkuthi's customisations include individualised designs that reflect each bride's personal style while maintaining the characteristically traditional nature of this type of nose ring.

Modern interpretations of Mookkuthis come from multiple sources. In addition to traditional materials, such as diamonds and rubies, contemporary designs feature well-crafted mounting styles, such as bezel settings, which compliment heavy temple jewellery worn by brides. Mookkuthis continue to be one of the favourite types of nose rings for South Indian brides, especially those seeking a minimalist but elegant look.

Hoops or Nath 

This is the common name for this bold and elaborate nose ring, which makes a statement and attracts attention.

The Nath is popularly worn in South Indian Brahmin weddings as part of the brides' traditional attire. Large hoops like these tend to be completed with pearl embellishments, uncut diamonds, and intricate metal design work.

Typically, the Nath is placed in the left nostril, as it is believed to represent good fortune and happiness. Today, brides wear less elaborate versions of hoop nose rings with detachable chains and/or minimal embellishments, creating a good compromise between comfort and tradition while still making an attractive statement for the bride.

Pullakku (Septum Ring)

This ring represents a more posh style than the traditional nose rings, sitting between the bridge of the nose at the centre. This style has a more delicate drop that is often adorned with pearls, rubies or emeralds. The Pullakku has become a popular piece of heritage-inspired jewellery that offers drama, symmetry and immense volume to brides' looks. Historically worn by royal and classical bridal styles, brides today have recognized the value of the Pullakku as an elegant addition to their wedding wear.

Together, these two South Indian nose ring designs are examples of the links between tradition and a modern interpretation of the bridal look.

Read more: Nose Pin 101: Your Complete Guide to Classic Refinement

Understanding the Craft: Gold vs. Silver Nose Ring Designs

Pragmatically and traditionally, choosing a metal for a wedding ornament in a southern Indian culture can be described as a combination of tradition and pragmatic need.

Traditionally, the majority of jewellery worn by Indian brides has been made from 22-karat, or pure gold; however, in recent years, women have been turning to 18-karat, or 75%-pure gold, which is quickly becoming the "Gold Standard" for nose rings for the modern bride.

18k gold is the ideal solution for brides who intend to keep their nose ring for many years following the wedding. Gold is both durable and attractive, with its unique appearance due to the combination of alloys to forge hardness into the metal. In addition, because of its higher percentage of alloys, it is much stronger than 22-karat gold. In addition to this, it is also far more effective than softer gold in keeping precious gems, such as the traditional South Indian ruby or diamond, securely set in place and therefore, giving the bride the assurance that her nose ring is durable and will last many years to come.

The Growing Popularity of Silver Nose Rings

While gold is traditionally reserved for the marriage ceremony, silver nose rings have rapidly gained popularity as part of pre-wedding events like the Mehendi and Haldi ceremonies. Designers have created beautiful Temple-style silver nose ring collections mimicking the elaborate designs of gold but offering them at a more affordable price point. These pieces frequently incorporate antique finishes making them desirable among bridesmaid customers who want to stay within the bridal theme but without the high costs associated with gold.

Oxidised Silver Nose Rings and the Bohemian-Bride Trend

For many new generation brides, the jewellery they select reflects their individuality. Therefore, the rising trend of oxidised silver nose ring designs is appealing to this demographic due to its contemporary yet rustic blackened finish that is perfect for a Bohemian-inspired bride. Many female-designed nose rings in the oxidised silver category have tribal motifs or floral detailing throughout to reflect traditional South Indian styles but are adapted for modern brides seeking an edgy appearance. From clip-ons for non-pierced noses to fashion-forward septum rings, silver is now a major player in modern wedding ceremonies.

Read more: Top 6 Nosepin Designs in Trend

Styling Your Bridal Nose Ring with Traditional Attire

The bridal nose ring is not simply an adornment; it completes the overall picture of a traditional bridal style. The most important consideration for the nose ring is its compatibility with both the bridal attire and the rest of your bridal jewellery.

Kanchipuram Silk Saree

Due to the luxurious nature of Kanchipuram silk sarees, they require equally luxurious bridal jewellery. Heavy gold necklaces and multi-level bangles should be accompanied by traditional temple-style gold nose pins with deity motifs, pearl drops or rubies. A nose ring in the same style will complement the glamour of the silk saree without overwhelming the overall look. Brides who wear Kanchipuram silk sarees may consider a nose pin that is a bit larger than average or small hoop-like designs to ensure visual balance between the other pieces of gold jewellery traditionally worn by brides.

Fusion or Modern Style Conceptions

Modern brides are increasingly using lehengas and modern wedding gowns that are more artsy and less traditional looking. This has allowed Brides to access lighter weight nose rings that are more representative of the woman’s collection of nose rings. More ornamental, contemporary designs such as diamond studs in larger sizes, septum rings, or smaller hoops offer a contemporary take on classic designs or styles, while still celebrating cultural authenticity. These designs represent a balance between modern and traditional bridal style.

Read more: Gold Nose Pins in 2025 – Stylish Modern Designs with a Cultural Touch

Embracing Heritage in Every Detail

Made With 18K Gold And Lab Grown Diamonds

In the rapidly changing world of bridal fashion, the South Indian nose pin is a constant symbol of cultural identity. The Mookkuthi's shine, along with the antique-looking hoop, symbolise 100s of years of family tradition, blessings, and spiritual importance; they are not simply visual ornaments but are sources of pride for the bride's identity and beauty. 

Modern ways of thinking are leading to a change in the use of high-quality and versatile materials and the choice between using gold or silver is a pleasant addition to the bridal experience. Gold has always been linked with weddings as a timeless option; however, silver is fast becoming a fashionable modern option for pre-wedding celebrations and festive attire. At the end of the day, the best nosepin for you is the one that connects you back to your roots as you begin building your own future.

Find Your Perfect Bridal Match

The Wedding Nose Pin is an important accessory to compliment your Bridal Look. GIVA Offers you a wide range of patterns from 18K Gold Diamond Studs to Beautiful Sterling Silver Nose Pins.

Visit GIVAs jewellery store and choose a Nose Pin in gold or silver for your Wedding Day!

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Fashion and Lifestyle , nose ring design , Nose ring for women , silver nose ring , silver nose ring design , Women nose ring , Women nose rings

Shwetha J

Shwetha is a content writer who brings in Shopify & off-page SEO expertise, and matches her passion for dance off-duty.