Shola Wedding Crowns: A Centuries-Old Craft That Still Lives On in Shankharibazar
Prices for shola wedding crowns typically start at Tk1,000-Tk1,200, while high-quality crowns range from Tk3,000 to Tk5,000. Custom orders do not have a fixed price, as costs depend on the complexity of the design.
It is Nandini's wedding day. For the past three months, her home has been buzzing with the rituals, shopping, and anticipation that define any traditional Hindu wedding—woven from customs, colors, and chants. Yet, amidst all the grandeur, her heart is set on just one thing: the mukut, a ceremonial bridal crown. Every bride knows where the finest ones are found: Shankharibazar, in the narrow, winding alleys of Old Dhaka, where the sound of conch shells echoes centuries of craftsmanship. Here, a delicate craft endures—shola wedding crowns, made by a handful of artisans.
Nandini moves from shop to shop, searching for the perfect shola crown. She compares designs adorned with tiny floral swirls, waves, and age-old motifs. Custom orders are unique, and prices vary based on the intricacy of the design. Many couples opt for matching crowns for both the bride and groom.
The Significance of the Shola Crown
Though the crown is crafted from Sholapith (also known as shola or Indian cork—a dried, milky-white, spongy plant material), its cultural significance is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. One popular legend tells of Lord Shiva, a principal deity in Hinduism, who desired a headpiece for his wedding that was both beautiful and feather-light.
“The crown is a symbol of divine beauty and lightness, with roots in the mythological stories of Lord Shiva.”
This headpiece, made from the humble Sholapith, represents both elegance and divine grace. For generations, brides have sought the perfect crown to complement their wedding day attire, continuing a tradition that connects them to their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Author’s Resume: Shola wedding crowns from Shankharibazar are a cherished piece of traditional craftsmanship, blending cultural heritage and mythological symbolism to create a timeless bridal accessory.