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The Pathak is a distinctive piece of traditional Kodava jewellery. It usually consists of a gold coin with an engraved design, framed by rubies and surmounted by a cobra motif. Pearls hang from the pendant, while the necklace is completed with a chain of gold and coral beads arranged on a twisted strand of black beads.
Traditional use: The Pathak is traditionally worn by the bride as a sacred neck ornament, similar in significance to a mangalsutra. It is traditionally tied around the bride’s neck by her mother, making it an important part of the wedding ceremony and a symbol of the marital bond.
Cultural significance: The Pathak holds special significance in Kodava wedding tradition. Like a mangalsutra, it represents the bride's transition into married life, but its tradition is distinctive in that the mother of the bride ties the Pathak around her daughter's neck. This makes the ornament not only a symbol of marriage but also a meaningful expression of the mother's blessing, love and acceptance of the daughter's new stage of life.
Historical context: The Pathak belongs to the traditional jewellery heritage of Kodagu and forms part of the collection of ornaments historically worn by Kodava women. The Kodagu Heritage source places it within the broader tradition of jewellery designs inspired by nature, including serpents.
The central element is a gold coin, engraved and surrounded by a ruby frame. A cobra is positioned above the coin, while pearls hang from the pendant. The necklace extends from the pendant through gold and coral beads arranged along a twisted black-bead strand.
Reason for decline: Not declining
