In a traditional Hindu wedding, a mangalsutra is a necklace the groom may tie around the bride’s neck as a sign of marriage.
The mangalsutra, also spelled mangala sutra, is commonly a black-and-gold beaded necklace, although its design varies substantially by region, caste, family, and community. During the wedding, the groom may tie it around the bride’s neck while relatives witness the act. In many traditions, it marks her married status and is associated with the couple’s welfare.
The word comes from Sanskrit elements meaning “auspicious” and “thread.” The necklace is especially prominent in several Hindu communities in South and western India, but it is not universal across all Hindu weddings. Some couples use a pendant, chain, or modern adaptation.
A mangalsutra is not the same as sindoor, the red vermilion traditionally placed in a bride’s hair parting. Both can carry marital symbolism, but they are separate customs.