The Jewellery Archive: What Is Dholna? Know All About Drum-Shaped Locket Rooted In Bihar's Culture

From rich traditional roots to vibrant folk arts, Bihar has been a place in India where you can find Indian heritage, dating back to ancient times. It can be reflected in its jewellery designs too, in which one of the most prominent designs is a locket shaped as drum. Called Dholna, it is a deeply significant and traditional drum-shaped locket, mostly given to brides.

In today's segment of The Jewellery Archive, we bring the story of Dholna and how it became the staple jewellery piece for brides in Bihar.

What is Dholna?

Dholna is basically the  traditional drum-shaped locket and bridal necklace most prominently rooted in Bihari culture. It is usually made up of an exquisite gold or silver pendant and is shaped like a miniature dhol or drum. Dholna also serves as a regional counterpart to or companion of the mangalsutra.

What is the origin of Dholna?

The origin of Dholna dates back to ancient Sindh, which centers around one of the world's oldest urban societies, the Indus Valley Civilization. It further became popular in Bihar and found a boost around 500 years ago during Mughal era.

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There is an interesting mythological connection to Dholna, as well as its drum shape being deeply tied to the dhol. It is depicted along with Lord Ganesh and Lord Shiva, and is also a necessity for announcing auspicious events like weddings. It is believed that Dholna became a holy charm meant to bring good luck, prosperity, and joy to a new bride.

Coming back to its prominence in the Mughal Era, Dholna was widely adopted by people in that period. Moreover, for economically disadvantaged families who could not afford sprawling, heavy jewelry sets, lightweight ornaments like the Dholna were created.

How is Dholna created?

1. Pure gold (often 24K) or silver is rolled and hammered into micro-thin sheets and wires to create a framework for the locket.
2. Artisans carefully handcraft the miniature drum shape, applying fine wire filigree, small gold beads, and heart-shaped or geometric plates onto a temporary wax base.
3. Then, these pieces are embedded in plaster, soldered together using a blowtorch, and washed.
4. The finished drum-shaped pendant is traditionally strung onto a sacred red thread, gold chain or a string of black beads.

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Is Dholna still relevant in 2026?

Dholna has always been popular in Bihar's culture and is considered auspicious for brides. However, the brands have started focusing more on the region and this culture. For example, a prominent brand like Tanishq launched its Maithili collection, which is inspired by Madhubani art and compiled the jewellery worn by brides in Bihar.

Apart from Dholna, the collection also includes the Antar Manjari Haar set, chudamadi, intricately designed necklaces, gold bangles, maagtika, gold nath, and much more. 

(Image Credits: Tanishq Website)
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