What is the kalire and when are they tied to the bride's bangles?

Kalire are bright, umbrella-shaped ornaments made of metal, beads and mirrors. They are tied to the bride's bangles, usually after the chooda ceremony, as part of the pre-wedding rituals in Punjabi Sikh tradition. The chooda itself is a set of red and white bangles worn by the bride for several weeks after the wedding.

The kalire are meant to fall off during the wedding festivities. Tradition says that when a kalira falls on a single woman's head, she will be the next to marry. Bridesmaids and female relatives often try to catch them, adding fun and laughter to the celebrations.

Some modern brides choose to keep their kalire as a keepsake rather than letting them fall. Others wear smaller versions that are easier to manage throughout a long day of ceremonies. The exact timing can vary by family and region, so ask the couple or their family for their plans.