For Nepali women, Teej is more than dressing in red, wearing gold, singing and celebrating. It is a festival deeply connected with devotion, marriage, family, sisterhood and the traditions that have been passed from one generation to another.

And among the most meaningful pieces worn during Teej is the Tilhari.

Traditionally worn by married Nepali women, the Tilhari is much more than a gold ornament. Worn together with Pote, it has long represented marriage, blessings, prosperity and prayers for the wellbeing and longevity of one’s husband.

What is Pote?

Pote is the beautiful strand of tiny glass beads traditionally worn by married Nepali women. During Teej, you’ll often see layers of Pote paired with a gold Tilhari, creating one of the most recognizable looks of Nepali culture.

And the colors carry meaning too.

💚 Green Pote is traditionally associated with growth, prosperity, renewal and a flourishing married life.

❤️ Red Pote carries the auspicious energy of marriage, love and good fortune — which is why red is so deeply connected with both Nepali weddings and Teej.

💛 Yellow/Golden Pote is also traditionally worn, bringing a warm, auspicious touch that pairs beautifully with gold jewelry.

Over time, women have also started choosing Pote in many different colors to complement their sarees and personal style — but red, green and yellow remain among the traditional favorites.

Chhadke, Maili or Kanchi Tilhari — What’s the Difference?

The beauty of Tilhari is that there isn’t only one way to wear it.

Chhadke Tilhari
The boldest and most traditional statement. A longer Tilhari can be worn diagonally across the body — chhadke style — creating that unmistakable grand Teej look. It is perfect when you want your traditional jewelry to become the centerpiece of your outfit.

Maili Tilhari
Sitting between the larger Chhadke and smaller Kanchi styles, Maili offers a beautiful balance. It carries the presence of a traditional Tilhari without feeling overly heavy, making it a beautiful choice for festivals, pujas and special occasions.

Kanchi Tilhari
Smaller, delicate and easy to wear, Kanchi Tilhari is loved for its simplicity. It keeps the meaning and tradition of Tilhari while offering a lighter look that can be worn during Teej and beyond.

Whether you love the grandeur of a Chhadke Tilhari, the balance of a Maili Tilhari, or the delicacy of a Kanchi Tilhari, every style carries a piece of home with it.

Because when we celebrate Teej thousands of miles away from Nepal, these traditions become even more precious.

At Queens Diamond & Jewelry, we are proud to bring traditional Nepali jewelry to our community in New York — from Pote and Tilhari to timeless gold jewelry inspired by the traditions we grew up with.

If you’re searching for Teej jewelry in New York, Tilhari in NYC, Pote Tilhari, Chhadke Tilhari, Maili Tilhari, Kanchi Tilhari, or a trusted Nepali jewelry store in New York, visit Queens Diamond & Jewelry and find the piece that feels like your Teej.

Tradition may travel across oceans, but its meaning stays close to the heart.

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