payal

Payal, written in Hindi as पायल, commonly refers to an ankle ornament worn around the ankle. It is typically a chain or bracelet, and may include small bells that tinkle when the wearer moves. In South Asia, payal is also a feminine given name.

As an object, payal is made from metals such as silver or gold, though modern versions may use brass, copper, or plated materials. Designs range from delicate, simple chains to large, ornamental pieces with charms, beads, or gemstones. The bells and the way the payal sits on the ankle give it distinct sound and movement.

Cultural role: Payals are traditional jewelry worn by women in India, Pakistan, Nepal, and other parts of the Indian subcontinent, both in daily life and on formal occasions. In classical Indian dance, ankle bells (ghungroos) are worn around the ankle to accompany footwork; while ghungroos are specifically dance bells, payals used for adornment may also feature tiny bells. In weddings and festive events, payals may be part of bridal jewelry sets or family jewelry ensembles.

The name is used across the Indian subcontinent; notable people named Payal include Payal Kadakia (founder of ClassPass), Payal Rohatgi (actress), and Payal Dev (singer and composer).

See also: anklet.