Wall Painting Directory, INTACH

J ewellery has been an integral part of the Indian subcontinent since the Upper Palaeolithic period. Over these millennia, humans have transformed their creations from ostrich eggshells to various metals. In India, it is an essential aspect of our culture and heritage. The country is incredibly rich in the diversity of styles from its many states; however, here we will focus on Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh due to their uniqueness and historical significance. The Himalayan ranges to the west feature various kinds of jewellery distinct from those found elsewhere in the country. Ornaments are symbolic of wealth, culture, rituals, and aesthetics.  Uttarakhand has similar yet distinct jewellery in both the Garhwal and Kumaon regions. Similarly, the ornaments in Himachal’s Chamba and Kangra regions are also similar yet different from other parts of Himachal Pradesh.  In Uttarakhand, both the Garhwali and Kumaoni communities wear traditional jewellery as an integral part of the...