Patiala Paranda Hair Braid Ornament Weaving

A paranda is a braided tassel extension woven into women's hair plaits in Punjab, traditionally made by specialist artisans in Patiala from silk thread, zari, and mirror-work embellishments tied in a looped bundle at the braid end. Patiala's craft mohallas produce parandas in dozens of colour combinations and embroidered patterns for wedding trousseaux; the paranda is an essential element of Punjabi bridal adornment along with the phulkari. Though younger urban women now less commonly wear parandas daily, demand peaks at wedding season and during cultural events like Teej where traditional dress is celebrated.