Various (worn by Kim Kardashian, others)
Septum / Nose Ring
Various (worn by Kim Kardashian, others)
- Item
- Septum / Nose Ring
- Retail
- —
- Spin
- "Edgy face jewellery"
The traditional Nath has been adopted by various global figures, including celebrities like Kim Kardashian, and presented as a contemporary fashion statement. Marketed as 'edgy face jewellery,' this reinterpretation strips the Nath of its deep cultural and sacred meanings. The focus shifts from its bridal and Ayurvedic significance to a superficial trend, reducing a revered Indian tradition to a mere accessory for Western fashion events.
नथ
Nath
- True Value
- Sacred
- Category
- 02 · Textiles & Jewelry
The Nath (नथ) is a distinctive nose ring, particularly prominent in Maharashtra and North India. Traditionally, it holds significant cultural and spiritual value, often worn by brides as a symbol of marital status and prosperity. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Nath is also associated with Ayurvedic beliefs, thought to have health benefits due to the piercing point. It is a cherished part of Indian jewelry heritage, passed down through generations.
FX reference: 1 USD ≈ ₹83 — for comparison only
The Story
Celebrities like Kim Kardashian have been observed wearing septum rings, often styled as an "edgy" fashion statement. These pieces, marketed as contemporary facial jewelry, have appeared in various fashion contexts, detached from their original cultural significance. The trend highlights a broader pattern of traditional adornments being recontextualized for a global fashion audience.
The Nath (नथ) is a traditional nose ring, predominantly from Maharashtra and other parts of North India, holding deep cultural and sacred significance. It is a vital component of bridal attire, symbolizing marital status and prosperity. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Nath also carries Ayurvedic associations, believed to offer health benefits. Its design and wearing are steeped in centuries of tradition, often passed down through generations within families and communities.
The appropriation of the Nath as a mere fashion accessory has drawn criticism from cultural commentators and members of the Indian diaspora. Objections primarily center on the lack of acknowledgment for its sacred and cultural origins, reducing a meaningful tradition to a transient trend. Critics argue that this decontextualization strips the Nath of its profound significance, turning it into an exotic prop without respect for its heritage or the communities that uphold its meaning.
The Nath has bridal and Ayurvedic significance. Now worn as a fashion-week 'edge' signal.
Reporting forthcoming