WRIST COUTURE

Laad Bazaar

Hyderabadi lac bangles are famous not just in the city but in chic boutiques abroad too. Their vivid shades and sheen make them special gifts as well. Just off Charminar, on the way to the Chowmahalla Palace is the street named Laad Bazaar, which was apparently set up by Quli Qutb Shah at the time of his daughter’s wedding. The market comes alive with dozens of big and small shops selling bangles. The patterns formed on the bangles with the stones that are encrusted are truly unique in their appeal. While it is sheer pleasure to simply see and try out the various varieties of bangles, it is also a treat to hear the stories that the sellers will indulge you with. The bangles have interesting names too, like khopda for the entire set to go with the traditional Hyderabadi bridal outfit and the family set with bachche which are thinner bangles to be interspersed with the broader ones to form a set.