What Are Choora and Kaleeray?
If you're planning a Punjabi wedding — or attending one — you've likely seen the stunning red and ivory bangles adorning the bride's wrists, decorated with hanging golden ornaments that chime with every movement. These are choora and kaleeray, two of the most iconic elements of South Asian bridal tradition.
The Meaning Behind Choora
Choora (also spelled chura) are a set of red and ivory bangles traditionally gifted to a Punjabi bride by her maternal uncle (mama) during the choora ceremony, typically held the morning of the wedding. The bride wears them for 40 days after the wedding as a symbol of her new marital status.
Today, brides have more choices than ever:
- Traditional red and ivory — the classic combination, timeless and meaningful
- Pastel choora sets — blush pink, mint green, champagne, and lavender for modern brides
- Gold-dipped choora — bangles with gold or silver detailing for extra elegance
- Personalized choora — sets with the bride's name or initials engraved
What Are Kaleeray?
Kaleeray are the umbrella-shaped hanging ornaments attached to the choora. Traditionally made of gold or silver, they are gifted by the bride's sisters and female relatives, each tying one on as a blessing. The kaleeray are believed to bring good luck — and according to tradition, whichever unmarried girl the kaleeray falls on during the ceremony will be the next to marry!
Modern kaleeray come in a wide range of styles:
- Classic gold kaleeray — intricate filigree work, traditional and elegant
- Floral kaleeray — flower-shaped designs with pearl or stone accents
- Personalized kaleeray — with the bride and groom's initials or wedding date
- Pastel and ombre kaleeray — matching the bride's choora color palette
How to Choose the Right Choora Size
Choora sizing is based on your wrist measurement. Here's a quick guide:
- Size 2/2 — fits wrists up to 5.5 inches
- Size 2/4 — fits wrists 5.5–6 inches (most common)
- Size 2/6 — fits wrists 6–6.5 inches
- Size 2/8 — fits wrists 6.5–7 inches
To measure, wrap a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your hand (just below the knuckles) with your thumb tucked in. This is your choora size.
Buying Choora and Kaleeray in Canada
Finding authentic choora and kaleeray sets in Canada used to mean ordering from abroad or relying on family trips to India or Pakistan. Touch Of Elegance makes it easy to shop for beautiful, high-quality choora and kaleeray sets online, with fast shipping across Canada.
Our choora and kaleeray boxes are a popular gifting option — beautifully packaged and ready to present at the choora ceremony. They make a thoughtful and meaningful gift from the mama or the bride's family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear choora if I'm not Punjabi?
Absolutely. While choora is a Punjabi tradition, many South Asian brides from other backgrounds have embraced it as part of their bridal look. It's a beautiful tradition that transcends regional boundaries.
How many bangles are in a choora set?
A standard choora set typically includes 21 bangles per hand (42 total), though this can vary. Some sets include more for a fuller look.
When should I order my choora?
We recommend ordering at least 4–6 weeks before your wedding to allow time for shipping and any adjustments. During peak wedding season (May–September), order even earlier.
Shop Choora and Kaleeray Sets
Ready to find your perfect set? Browse our collection of choora and kaleeray sets — available in traditional and modern styles, with fast Canadian shipping.