It’s not just about the bling, gold is a way of life for Indians

Indians love gold; it is an obsession and a fascination that defines who they are.

For centuries, most festivals provided the perfect opportunity to splurge on gold. Indians will flaunt their necklaces, bangles, earrings and navel rings. It almost feels like show-off time as they parade their pieces.

In fact, during weddings, gold is gifted to brides and is supposed to bring blessings and good luck. A bride must always have gold on her and a man that gifts her a set of gold is honoured and respected by the entire family.

Gold is ingrained in the Indian psyche and is considered the only precious metal every family must have. Yep! It is a crazy addiction.

Sometime I wonder if this is a religious ritual or just a cultural craze.

Personally, for lack of interest, I stick to my silver and beaded accessories.

I have paid the price for not being a gold lover. I once visited my grandmother, who, I must admit, despite her old age, is really fashion forward. Her gold chains are her fashion statements and she once confessed to “feeling naked” without them.   I was wearing silver coated studs and from the look on her face, she was not impressed.

“Chandni! A su peiruche the? Thara kan me ekei sona ni variu kem nathi?” (Chandni, what on earth are you wearing? Why are you not wearing a gold pair of earrings?), she demanded.

I was dumbfounded for a moment. Of course, I knew confessing my hate for golden jewellery would agitate her more, so, I had to think fast!  “Well grandma, I just took them to the goldsmith to get them cleaned,” I lied.

She smiled. Perfect!