Shakha Pola is seen as a symbol that represents marital status and cultural significance in Bengali culture. And it is something that women from Bengali families have been wearing for centuries. But when it comes to buying a set of Shakha Pola nowadays, it is a whole different story. There are a lot of sellers that sell cheap and duplicate Shakha Pola. So the question is, how can you actually identify the original Shakha Pola? Well, that’s exactly what we are onto today, here we will be going over the things you should consider when buying a set of Shakha Pola from the market. Let’s get down to it then.

History Of Shakha Pola

Before we jump straight into the whole “what is it and where’s it from” stuff about Shakha Pola, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane, shall we? Shakha Pola bangles didn’t just pop up out of nowhere. Nope! They have a rich history tied to beautiful Bengali weddings. Can you picture a Bengali bride without these? Hard, right? These bangles are like the cherry on top for them. Now, here’s an interesting bit. Ever heard of Dhaka’s legendary conch-cutting scene? That’s where these bangles first made their mark. But hey, times change! The hustle and bustle of Kolkata’s streets took the baton and became the go-to place for these iconic bangles.

Getting the Hang of the Bits and Pieces

• Shakha: First up, the Shakha! It’s a white bangle, made from conch shells. But hey, it’s not just a pretty wrist thing. This bangle is like a symbol of purity. Imagine wearing a piece of the ocean that tells everyone, “I’m pure at heart!” The hard work and love of the craftsmen pour into making each piece. They’ve been doing this for years, and while their tools and tricks might’ve changed, their soulful touch remains.
• Pola: Next, the fiery Pola! A red coral bangle adds the perfect touch of color. But, it’s not just about looks. It stands for happiness and, believe it or not, fertility. It’s like wearing a piece of joy around your wrist. Together with Shakha, it’s like having the perfect duo of tradition and meaning.

How To Identify Original Shakha Pola?

So, here’s the big question: How do you tell if your Shakha is the real deal or just a cheap knockoff?

• Shape: First things first! A genuine Shakha is a bit like us – not perfectly round and unique in its own way. If it’s too perfect, you might want to think twice.
• Texture: Imagine you’re at the beach and you pick up a shell. That’s how a real Shakha feels, all natural and not like those plastic toys. So, if it feels like Barbie’s bracelet, be suspicious!
• Weight: A legit Shakha has a feel, a certain weight to it. It’s not too heavy, not too light, just right! Fake ones? They can feel all wrong in your hand.
• Sound: Here’s a fun one! Give your bangle a gentle tap-tap, almost like you’re playing a mini drum. The sound it makes can spill the beans on whether it’s real or not. Originals have their own special ring to them.
• Price: Okay, let’s be real. The good stuff doesn’t come cheap. If someone’s selling you a “genuine” Shakha at the price of a candy bar, trust your gut. If it sounds too good to be true, chances are it’s not the real deal.

How to care for Shakha and Pola bangles?

• Avoid exposing them to chemicals and detergents as they can harm the natural materials.
• Clean them with a soft cloth and mild soap if necessary, but do so sparingly to prevent damage.
• Be careful not to drop or apply too much pressure, as they can crack or break.

Conclusion

There you have it. Now it shouldn’t be too hard for you to easily identify which Shakha Pola is original and which one is just downright fake. Correct? However, always remember that there are different types of Shakha Pola in the market, so you can decide which one to choose as per what look you want, and of course your budget.

Santosh

Santosh Kumar is an editor at unfoldstuffs.com and a professional content writer. With years of experience he is passionate for creating engaging, informative and impactful topics.