INR ₹
USD $
EUR €
GBP £
Totapari • Indian Foot Jewellery
Anklets, Payals, Toe Rings — A Deep Dive into Timeless Tradition
Indian foot jewellery is not just about the bling. It’s a language — older than memory. Anklets, Toe Rings, Payal, Bichiyas… these names whisper tradition, identity, and femininity.
Yes, there’s a sound — a gentle chime with each step. Pleasing? Perhaps. But the jingle isn’t the point. The point is connection: to the earth, to heritage, to self-expression, and to the grace of movement.
Shop Anklets by Style
Tip: Share your exact category links anytime — I’ll wire each button perfectly.
But why adorn the feet?
In India, foot adornment is not just fashion. It’s a language. Older than memory. These pieces weren’t (and aren’t) just about aesthetics — they communicated identity, culture, and status.
The jingle isn’t the point. The sound is only a side-effect. The real magic is how an anklet turns a simple walk into a graceful expression of self.
In traditional homes, the jingles made by foot jewellery also served as a gentle alert — signalling a woman’s presence and prompting others to be mindful, preserving privacy and respect in shared spaces.
For a new bride, the sound of anklets often signifies her new status and the beginning of a new phase of life.
Why Silver? The metal with meaning
You’ll often find Indian foot jewellery crafted from silver. Traditionally, gold is reserved for the upper body in many customs, while silver is associated with coolness, the moon, feminine energy, and grounding. It feels earth-connected — calm and steady.
You may also hear cultural beliefs linking silver with energy flow and well-being (these are traditional perspectives, not medical advice), but they remain part of how foot jewellery has been understood and cherished across generations.
Exploring the styles: a guide to Indian foot jewellery types
The variety is breathtaking. Anklets appear across regions under different names — Payal, Pazeb, Jhanjhar, Golusu, Silambu — each reflecting local craft, culture, and aesthetics.
Everyday elegance — a simple chain anklet that pairs beautifully with both Indian and contemporary looks.
1) Simple chain anklets
Elegant and understated — perfect for everyday wear. Lightweight, versatile, and timeless.
2) Payals: single & layered
From one clean line to multi-layered statement pieces — chosen for festivities, weddings, and moments that need a little grandeur.
3) Silver with stones & pearls
Emerald, lapis lazuli, carnelian, quartz, amethyst, turquoise and pearls — when colour joins silver, the anklet becomes a personal narrative.
Toe rings (Bichiya / Metti): small, but powerful
Toe rings are among the most symbolic pieces of Indian foot jewellery. In many communities, the bichiya worn on the second toe of both feet is a powerful symbol of marriage — more than jewellery, it becomes part of identity.
Bichiya / toe rings — traditional, meaningful, and beautifully wearable.
- Simple bands: minimalist silver rings worn on any toe.
- Ornate designs: carvings, gemstones, or embellishments for more detail.
- Traditional beliefs: some associate toe ornaments with acupressure points (a cultural belief; not medical advice).
Foot chains (anklet + toe ring)
These pieces link the anklet to toe rings, creating a drape across the top of the foot — from delicate chains to elaborate, bejewelled styles. It is one of the most elegant “foot-drape” silhouettes.
Ghungroos: the dancer’s music
While not strictly jewellery in the everyday sense, ghungroos (small bells) are essential for Indian classical dance. They attach to anklets, creating rhythmic sound integral to performance.
Ghungroos — where adornment becomes rhythm, and rhythm becomes expression.
Bridal foot jewellery: a celebration of tradition
Bridal foot jewellery is a special category — often more elaborate and ornate. Across India, bridal styles vary beautifully by region and craft.
- Rajasthani: heavy, intricate designs with Kundan work, enamel and stones.
- South Indian: traditional motifs like peacocks, flowers, temple designs; often heavy and auspicious.
- Kundan: gemstone settings that add sparkle to bridal attire.
- Polki/Patra: uncut diamond look and gold-leaf work for a luxurious finish.
- Minimalist: delicate silver chains and neat toe rings for a modern, understated bride.
Choosing & caring for your foot jewellery
How to choose
- Consider the occasion: everyday wear, special event, or a wedding.
- Choose your metal: silver is traditional and versatile.
- Match your style: simple elegance or bold statements?
- Get the right size: measure your ankle/toe for comfort.
- Read customer feedback when buying online.
Care & longevity
- Store dry: keep in a soft pouch/box away from moisture.
- Wipe gently: soft cloth after wearing to reduce tarnish.
- Avoid chemicals: perfume/cleaners can dull shine.
- Fit tip: measure ankle circumference where you want it to sit; add a little ease for comfort.
Step into your story
Foot jewellery is more than adornment — it’s memory, culture, movement, and self-expression. Whether you choose a delicate silver chain or a layered payal with stones, let it feel like you. Let your feet speak in silver.
Explore Anklets & PayalsNote: All Totapari jewellery is handcrafted. Natural variations may occur — and that is what makes each piece uniquely yours.
