Why do Hindu Women Wears Nose Studs?

Nose piercing began in Indian Hindu culture in the 16th century when Moghul Emperors introduced the practice. When, and how, a Hindu woman wears a nose piercing may signify important aspects of her life.


Piercing in Girls

• Girls as young as 5 years old get nose piercings in India, depending on local custom. Nose piercings are generally marks of beauty and social standing and/or to honor the goddess Parvathi.

Health

• In Ayurvedic medicine, piercing the nostril is believed to help women with menstruation and child birth.

Wedding Day

• On a woman's wedding day, the nose piercing becomes a significant indicator of this major life event. The nose stud is replaced with a nose ring, or a Nath, which is hooked by a chain to the bride's ear or hair.

The Widow

• A married Hindu woman will often wear a nose piercing of some kind until she is a widow. Once her husband dies, she permanently removes the jewelry.