Romancing the Jhula : How to integrate it into your home

Swings in the western world are considered a calming stress free activity – It releases endorphins into the body which makes us feel happier and more focused. But it is a truth, we in India have long known. It’s calming, seductive motion is the reason many Indian homes always had a jhula. It was often the throne of the house, from where the authoritative voice of the senior would issue. But also where the kids would play, gossip and chit chat would happen and so on.   Traditionally also, right from the charm of the Radha Krishan period, swings have been an integral way to express youth and innocent flirtation.

Images of Raas Leela are full of depictions of swings and trees and depict desire and a way of breaking free.  Bollywood also had its role to play in romanticising the jhoola – many songs and heroines have been featured in and around the saawan ke jhule, swinging high and a feeling of being free and uninhibited.  One of Raja Ravi Varma’s most iconic paintings, Mohini features his muse on the swing, white saree, long hair flowing – an image of a young and carefree moment captured.

Many Indian festivals and celebrations are associated with the Jhoola, its depiction is particularly associated with the monsoon and the winds of the season – it’s equally popular in the western part as it is in the east of India. The Hariyaali Teej of Rajasthan celebrates the monsoon with young girls and married women both enjoying the festival. Swings are hung from trees and fertility is celebrated. In the South, the oonjal is where the newly married couple sits, and the women rock the swing gently, singing traditional songs. In Odisha, one has Rajo Parba which again celebrates women and fertility.

Gujarat has had a long tradition of having jhoolas in the house. It is considered auspicious as it attracts positive energies and happiness in the house. Moreover, after the scorching heat of the noon is over, the veranda is the best room in the house that offers cool air.

Thus the veranda was the preferred room all family members (and even neighbors) used to gather in the front veranda to chitchat in the evenings. A swing actually helps these gatherings.

Even when alone, people prefer to sit on a swing and spend pensive moments. It is very addictive. The Sankheda Jhula is one of the more traditional and well-loved pieces of jhoola, which is not hung from the ceiling but is a piece of furniture in itself.

 Integrating this traditional element into your urban home,   it is guaranteed to bring you relaxation and a sense of calm in days filled with chaos and stress.

• Make a style statement in your home by adding a jhula to your living room or drawing room. Adding a stylish and complementary jhula to your formal entertaining space will definitely make a statement. Whether you use a traditional wooden jhula or a contemporary cane style one, it is sure to make a stunning impact. Remember to coordinate the colors of your upholstery with the jhoola upholstery to give it an aesthetic feel.

• In the courtyard, terrace or a garden space – A jhula is a lovely way to enjoy the outdoors and greens. A swing in the garden or a terrace is both inviting and a design element which allows you to appreciate the green as well as calm down. The seasoned oonjals are a great choice for the covered outdoors. One joins the swing while admiring the plants and the lights.

• As a traditional/ statement showpiece: Many houses love to have a traditional jhula as a statement showpiece. The Sanganer Jhoola with its colorful wood work and designs is very popular. Many keep it in their lobby or foyer as a showpiece for guests to admire the craftsmanship.

Even today the Jhoola has not lost its allure or its enticing looks the jhoola has been modernized and is now contemporary with stunning looks and modern, clean designs. Many jhoolas are available in the market. Khoj has its signature vintage jhulas with wooden backs and beautiful vibrant upholstery. Metal chains ae included in the price. We also feature a selection of Oonjals, traditional jhulas with seasoned teak wood, equally well for the verandas or the insides.