Vaddanam: Styles, Weights and How to Wear It

The vaddanam is one of the most iconic pieces of South Indian bridal jewellery. Worn at the waist, over the saree, it completes the traditional Telugu bridal look. This guide explains the vaddanam's styles, what affects its weight and price, and how to wear it comfortably.

The bridal waist belt

A vaddanam (also called oddiyanam in Tamil, or kamarbandh in North India) is a gold waist belt worn over the saree. It holds the saree pleats in place and draws attention to the waist, creating a regal silhouette.

In Telugu weddings, the vaddanam is an essential bridal piece and is often passed down as an heirloom. It is also worn at festivals, family functions and classical dance performances. Read The Telugu Bridal Jewellery Checklist and Guttapusalu, Kasulaperu, Vaddanam.

Styles: plain, nakshi, stone-set

• Plain gold: smooth or lightly textured bands, elegant and versatile.
• Nakshi: hand-engraved or embossed with detailed motifs, especially Lakshmi, peacocks and floral designs. See Temple Jewellery.
• Kasu (coin) vaddanam: decorated with rows of gold coins.
• Stone-set: with kemp stones, rubies, emeralds or polki, often with a large central motif.
• Pearl-accented: with pearl fringes or drops along the lower edge.
• Lightweight and hollow: modern designs that keep the traditional look with less weight.

Weights and pricing

Vaddanams range from lightweight designs to very heavy traditional pieces. Their price depends on:

• the net gold weight, usually the biggest factor,
• the purity, typically 22K for traditional pieces. See 22K vs 18K vs 14K Gold,
• making charges, which are higher for intricate nakshi and stone-set work. See Making Charges Explained,
• stones, if included,
• GST.

Because a vaddanam can be one of the heaviest pieces in a bridal set, ask for the exact net weight and a clear breakdown before you buy.

Fit and wearing tips

• Get the size right: a vaddanam should sit snugly at the waist over the saree. Have it measured and adjusted, ideally with the saree on.
• Consider adjustable designs: many vaddanams have hooks or extra links that allow some adjustment.
• Wear it over the pleats: position it to hold the saree pleats neatly at the waist.
• Secure the clasp carefully, and ask someone to check it from behind.
• Try it on with your full look before the wedding, including the blouse and saree.
• Plan for comfort: heavier vaddanams can feel restrictive over a long day, so consider a lighter design if comfort is a priority.

Rent vs buy

Some families consider renting a vaddanam for a single occasion. The trade-offs are simple:

• Buying gives you a piece to wear again and pass down, and the gold keeps its value over time.
• Renting reduces the upfront cost for a one-time look, but you keep nothing afterwards.

Another option is to buy a lighter vaddanam, or to remake family gold into one. See Heirloom Remaking and Bridal Jewellery Budget Guide.

Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers, Shaikpet makes and carries traditional and lightweight vaddanams. To see designs or discuss a custom piece, message us on WhatsApp at +91 88855 00805.

Visit Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers, Shaikpet

Tibarumal & Sons Jewellers
Shop No. 102, 8-1-299/121, RP Business Park, Al Hamra Colony, Shaikpet, Hyderabad 500008

Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 8:30pm
Phone: +91 88855 00805
WhatsApp: Message us on WhatsApp
Instagram: @tibarumalandsons