Payal vs Anklet vs Jota: What's the Difference, How to Wear and Size Them

A payal and an anklet are the same ornament: anklet is the English word and payal is the Hindi and Marathi word, usually for a traditional design with ghungroo bells, worn as a pair with one on each ankle. Jota is a name used for a paired anklet set. This guide explains what they are, what ghungroo bells add, how to size and wear them, and how to look after them.

Payal vs anklet: what is the difference?

There is no real difference in the piece itself. Anklet is the English word and payal is the Hindi and Marathi word for the same ornament worn above the ankle. In shops, "payal" usually suggests a traditional design, often with ghungroo bells, while "anklet" is used for any style, including a plain chain. A jota (also spelt jodi) is simply a matching pair sold as one set.

What is a payal?

Payal is the Hindi and Marathi word for an anklet. It is a chain or a band worn just above the ankle bone, usually with small ghungroo bells or charms hanging from it. In many families the payal is part of bridal and festive dressing, and it is also worn by classical dancers. Sirini's payals are set with Kundan stones over a gold-plated brass or copper base, handcrafted in our Mumbai workshop. They are imitation jewellery, not solid gold or silver.

You can see the full range in the anklets collection. In our catalogue the jota collection lists paired payal sets, so the two collections overlap. If you are looking for a pair to wear together, start there.

Pieces to look at

For a bright, statement look, try the Ruby Statement Kundan Payal or the Elegant Ruby Kundan Payal. For a lighter, pastel-friendly pair, the Elegant White Kundan Payal and the Elegant Round Kundan Payal are good places to start.

What is a jota?

Jota is a regional name that many shoppers use for a matching pair of anklets sold together as one set. Terms for anklets vary by language and region, so the same piece may be called a payal, a paayal, a jodi or a jota depending on where you are. What matters is that you receive two matching anklets, one for each foot.

What do ghungroo bells do?

Ghungroo are the tiny metal bells attached to a payal. They ring softly as you walk or dance, which is why payals are a popular choice for garba, Navratri and dance performances, where the sound adds to the movement. In many families the sound of a bride's payal is also part of the feeling of a wedding. If you prefer a quieter piece, choose a payal without bells or with only a few, and check the product photos.

How to size a payal

Most anklets have an adjustable chain or a hook you can fasten at different points, but sizes still differ. Measure the ankle just above the ankle bone with a soft tape, and add about one to two centimetres so the payal sits comfortably without pinching. A payal that is too tight leaves marks and one that is too loose slips down over the foot. If you are between sizes, the looser option is usually more comfortable. Check the length in the product description, and message us on +91 98331 14467 if you are unsure.

How to wear payals

• Fasten each payal just above the ankle bone so it rests on the foot instead of the shin.
• Wear a matching pair, one on each ankle, unless you are deliberately choosing one.
• Pair with a toe ring if you like, and keep the rest of the look balanced: a Kundan payal suits a lehenga or a saree that shows the ankle.
• For a long dress or trousers, an anklet may be hidden, so choose a shorter length or a lighter piece.
• Check the fastening before you dance. A secure hook keeps the payal from slipping off in a crowd.

How to care for anklets

Anklets take more wear than other jewellery because they touch the floor, sweat and water. Keep them dry, take them off before bathing, wipe them with a soft dry cloth after use, and store the pair in a pouch so the bells do not scratch the stones. Our care guide lists the full routine. If you are buying for a wedding, browse the necklace sets and earrings to match the stone colour, and read our bridal jewellery checklist for the full list of pieces.

Common questions

What is the difference between a payal and an anklet?

There is no difference in the piece itself. Anklet is the English word and payal is the Hindi and Marathi word for the same ornament worn just above the ankle. In shops, payal usually means a traditional design, often with ghungroo bells, while anklet covers any style, including a plain chain.

What is a jota?

Jota is a regional name for a matching pair of anklets sold as one set. In Sirini's catalogue the jota collection lists paired payal sets.

Are the anklets real silver or gold?

No. Sirini's payals are gold-plated imitation jewellery over a brass or copper base with Kundan stone setting, not solid gold or silver.

How do I choose the size of a payal?

Measure your ankle just above the bone and add about one to two centimetres for comfort. Choose the looser size if you are between two.

Can I wear a payal every day?

You can, but gold-plated pieces last longer with occasional wear and careful storage. Take them off before bathing and keep them away from perfume.

Do you ship across India and offer Cash on Delivery?

Yes. Shipping is a flat Rs 150 across India, and Cash on Delivery is available on eligible orders. Sirini also ships to 28 countries abroad for a flat Rs 1,800. Exchanges are for defective, damaged or wrong items within 7 days.