Maharashtrian Bridal Jewellery Checklist: Nath, Thushi, Saaj, Bugadi, Mangalsutra

A Maharashtrian bridal jewellery set is usually built around a nath, a thushi or other close-fitting necklace, a saaj, pearl ear ornaments called bugadi, and a mangalsutra. Sirini stocks the nath, the mangalsutra and pearl and moti sets; it does not make thushi, kolhapuri saaj, bugadi or chinchpeti. This checklist explains each piece and says plainly what we do and do not sell.

Nath: the nose ring

The nath is the large bridal nose ring, and in a Maharashtrian look it is often set with pearls and worn with a nauvari saree. Sirini stocks it: our nath collection includes bridal naths with pearl beads and Kundan stones, and smaller nose rings, starting from about Rs 720. Check the fastening (clip-on or pierced) before you buy.

Thushi: the close-fitting choker

A thushi is a traditional Maharashtrian choker of small beads or gold pieces strung close together, and the gadi thushi is a version worked on nine threads for a snug collar fit. Sirini does not make thushi. Our nearest style is the Kundan choker set. Read more in our gadi thushi guide.

Saaj and kolhapuri saaj: the hanging-motif necklace

A saaj (also spelt saaz) is a traditional Maharashtrian necklace made of ornate hanging motifs, and the kolhapuri saaj is the version associated with Kolhapur, often described as being built from a set of many small charms. Sirini does not make saaj or kolhapuri saaj. If you want a long, traditional necklace in a similar spirit, see our long sets and necklace sets, but these are different designs, not a substitute in the strict sense.

Bugadi: the pearl ear ornament

Bugadi (also bugdi) is a Maharashtrian ear ornament of pearls worn along the upper ear. Sirini does not list bugadi. For a pearl-led look, our pearl and moti sets and earrings are the closest options.

Mangalsutra: the wedding necklace

The mangalsutra is the black-bead necklace a married woman wears, and Maharashtrian versions are commonly worn with small cups called vati. Sirini lists three Kundan mangalsutra sets, priced from about Rs 11,440 to Rs 14,000. These are Kundan-style designs, so check the product photos to see whether the design suits a traditional Maharashtrian mangalsutra, or message us and we will tell you. For a daily-wear mangalsutra that you will keep for years, real gold is usually the better long-term choice; see our real gold versus imitation guide.

Chinchpeti: the layered choker

Chinchpeti is a traditional Maharashtrian choker of closely set, overlapping pieces that hugs the neck. Sirini does not make chinchpeti. Again the choker sets are the closest style.

Everything else on the checklist

Most Maharashtrian brides also wear bangles, a maang tikka or forehead ornament, and a bajuband or armlet. Sirini stocks bangles, maang tikka and bridal jewellery. For the full list of pieces across Indian traditions, see our Indian bridal jewellery checklist and the glossary.

What Sirini stocks and what it does not

• Stocks: nath, mangalsutra (Kundan-style sets), pearl and moti sets, choker sets, necklace sets, bangles, maang tikka.
• Does not make: thushi and gadi thushi, kolhapuri saaj and saaj, bugadi, chinchpeti.

All Sirini jewellery is gold-plated imitation jewellery made in Mumbai on a brass or copper base, not real gold or diamonds. Shipping is a flat Rs 379 across India with cash on delivery available. Defective, damaged or wrong items can be exchanged within 7 days. To check what is in stock before you order, WhatsApp +91 98331 14467 or visit our Santacruz West showroom.

Common questions

What jewellery does a Maharashtrian bride wear?

A typical set includes a nath, a thushi or similar choker, a saaj or long necklace, bugadi pearl ear ornaments, a mangalsutra, bangles and often an armlet. The exact pieces vary by family and community.

Does Sirini sell a Maharashtrian nath?

Yes. Sirini stocks naths, including bridal designs with pearl beads and Kundan stones, in the nath collection. Sirini does not make thushi, saaj, bugadi or chinchpeti.

What is a kolhapuri saaj?

Kolhapuri saaj is a traditional Maharashtrian necklace associated with Kolhapur, built from ornate hanging motifs. Sirini does not make it.

What is a bugadi?

Bugadi, also spelt bugdi, is a Maharashtrian pearl ear ornament worn along the upper edge of the ear. Sirini does not currently list it.

Should a Maharashtrian mangalsutra be real gold?

Many families choose real gold because it is worn daily for years. If you prefer a gold-plated option, Sirini has Kundan mangalsutra sets, but plating wears with daily use.

What is the closest Sirini piece to a thushi?

The Kundan choker sets, which sit close to the neck. They are not thushi, but they give a similar snug neckline with a pearl or Kundan look.

Read next: Gadi thushi explained · Indian bridal jewellery checklist · What colour jewellery to wear.