The ancient braid tassel gets a stunning makeover — and why every modern Indian woman needs one
What Is a Kunjalam?
A Kunjalam (also spelled Kunjala or Kunjalamu) is a traditional South Indian braid ornament — a decorative tassel woven into or attached to the tip of a plait. For centuries, it has been an essential part of Tamil, Kerala, Andhra, and Karnataka bridal and classical dance styling.
Originally crafted in silk threads, gold, and gemstones, the Kunjalam was reserved for brides and temple dancers. Today? It has stepped boldly out of tradition and into everyday fashion — reimagined for the modern Indian woman who loves her roots but lives in the present.
The Traditional Kunjalam vs. The Modern Kunjalam
Traditional Kunjalam was characterised by:
- Heavy gold or silver metalwork
- Red, green, or maroon silk thread tassels
- Gemstone or kundan embellishments
- Worn exclusively at weddings, temple rituals, and classical dance performances
Modern Kunjalam has evolved into:
- Lightweight silk and cotton thread designs for daily wear
- Contemporary colour palettes — pastels, neutrals, neons, and earthy tones
- Minimalist and maximalist options for every occasion
- Mix-and-match styles that pair with both ethnic and fusion outfits
- Handcrafted and sustainable — supporting Indian artisans
Why Is the Modern Kunjalam Trending?
The Kunjalam is having a major cultural moment — and here's why:
- Bollywood & regional cinema — actresses are wearing Kunjalam in music videos, red carpets, and bridal sequences, inspiring millions
- Instagram & Reels — braid styling videos featuring Kunjalam consistently go viral during festive and wedding seasons
- Gen Z heritage fashion — a global movement of young South Asians reconnecting with traditional aesthetics through modern styling
- Sustainability — handcrafted Kunjalam supports local artisans and is a conscious alternative to fast fashion accessories
- Versatility — it works for office braids, college outfits, festive looks, and bridal styling alike
Types of Modern Kunjalam
1. Silk Thread Kunjalam
The most popular modern version — vibrant silk threads in single or multi-colour combinations. Lightweight, comfortable, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for daily wear, college, and casual festive occasions.
2. Minimalist Kunjalam
A sleek, single-colour tassel with a clean finish. Ideal for office wear or when you want a subtle nod to tradition without going all-out. Pairs beautifully with a neat low braid or side plait.
3. Boho Kunjalam
Layered tassels with wooden beads, shells, or macramé-style thread work. Perfect for music festivals, beach outfits, and casual bohemian styling.
4. Bridal Kunjalam
The showstopper — heavy silk with zari, gold-toned charms, and matching colour to the bridal lehenga or saree. A must-have for South Indian brides and sangeet functions across India.
5. Fusion Kunjalam
Designed to pair with Western outfits — denim, co-ord sets, and flowy dresses. Usually in neutral or pastel tones, sometimes with small charm pendants or metallic thread accents.
6. Festival Kunjalam
Bright, bold, and celebratory — made for Navratri, Pongal, Onam, Diwali, and Durga Puja. Multi-colour thread combos with mirror work or bell charms.
How to Style a Modern Kunjalam
For a Casual Day Look:
- Wear a simple three-strand braid or a loose fishtail
- Attach a silk thread Kunjalam at the end
- Pair with a kurta, salwar, or even a casual dress
- Choose earthy tones like rust, olive, or mustard
For a Festive Look:
- Style a sleek, well-oiled braid with a centre or side parting
- Add mogra or marigold flowers above the Kunjalam for a full festive effect
- Choose a Kunjalam that matches your outfit's border or dupatta colour
- Pair with jhumkas and a silk saree or lehenga
For a Bridal Look:
- Have your hairstylist weave the Kunjalam into a thick, braided plait
- Layer it with fresh flowers for a traditional South Indian bridal aesthetic
- Choose a long, heavy Kunjalam that extends past the braid's end
- Coordinate the colour with your blouse or jewellery
For a Fusion / Western Look:
- Style a high ponytail or a low side braid
- Clip on a minimalist Kunjalam in black, white, or gold
- Pair with a flowy maxi dress, denim jacket, or co-ord set
- Let the tassel do the talking — keep the rest of your accessories simple
Kunjalam Colour Guide: What to Pick
- Red & Gold — bridal, traditional, Bharatanatyam
- Green & Gold — South Indian weddings, Onam, saree pairings
- Maroon & Cream — festive, elegant, silk saree styling
- Pastels (lavender, blush, mint) — modern, fusion, college wear
- Black & Gold — contemporary, bold, evening wear
- Multicolour — Navratri, garba, casual festive
- Earthy tones (rust, ochre, olive) — boho, casual, everyday
Kunjalam vs. Paranda: What's the Difference?
While both are braid ornaments rooted in Indian tradition, they come from different regional origins:
- Kunjalam — South Indian origin (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra, Karnataka); typically a tassel attached at the braid tip; associated with classical dance and South Indian weddings
- Paranda / Parandi — North Indian / Punjabi origin; woven throughout the entire braid from root to tip; associated with Punjabi bridal culture and festivals
Both are beautiful — and at KANAV STORE, we celebrate both traditions.
Shop Modern Kunjalam at KANAV STORE
At KANAV STORE, our Kunjalam collection is where heritage craftsmanship meets modern sensibility. Each piece is handcrafted with premium silk threads, thoughtfully designed to suit every occasion — from your morning braid to your bridal day.
Whether you're looking for a minimalist everyday tassel, a vibrant festive Kunjalam, or a showstopping bridal piece — we have something made just for you.
👉 Explore our Kunjalam collection — because your braid is the canvas, and Kunjalam is the art.
Final Thought
The modern Kunjalam is proof that the most beautiful things in fashion are not invented — they are remembered. Rooted in centuries of South Indian tradition, reimagined for today's woman, the Kunjalam is more than a hair accessory. It is a statement — of identity, of pride, and of the effortless beauty that comes from knowing where you come from.
Wear it. Style it. Own it.