Pavan (India) (pavan) - Unit Information & Conversion
What is a Pavan (India)?
Definition
The Pavan (പവൻ), sometimes spelled Pawan or Pavana, is a traditional unit of mass predominantly used in the state of Kerala, South India, almost exclusively for measuring gold. It is defined as being exactly equal to 8 grams. Unlike units like the Tola or Masha which had broader applications, the Pavan's use is tightly linked to the gold trade and jewelry market in this specific region.
History
The origin of the Pavan as a unit is closely tied to the weight of the British Gold Sovereign coin, which weighs approximately 7.98805 grams (very close to 8 grams). During the British colonial era and afterwards, the Sovereign was a common form of holding gold, and its weight became a de facto standard for gold transactions in certain regions, particularly Kerala. Over time, 'Pavan' became synonymous with this 8-gram standard for gold. Despite the official adoption of the metric system in India, the Pavan remains the primary unit for quoting gold prices and measuring gold weight in jewelry shops throughout Kerala and among the Malayali diaspora.
Common Uses
The Pavan is almost exclusively used for:
- Gold Jewelry: Pricing, buying, and selling gold ornaments (necklaces, bangles, earrings, etc.) in Kerala. Jewelry weight is almost always specified in Pavan.
- Gold Bullion: Measuring and trading small gold bars or coins, especially in local markets.
- Investment Gold: Discussing and quantifying personal gold holdings.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in contexts like dowries or gifts where gold quantity is specified.
Unit FAQs
How many grams are in a Pavan?
One Pavan is exactly equal to 8 grams (g). This is the standard definition used throughout Kerala and in the gold trade associated with the region.
Is Pavan used outside of India?
The Pavan is primarily used within India, specifically concentrated in the state of Kerala. It is also commonly used by the Malayali diaspora community worldwide when dealing with gold transactions within the community or purchasing gold from Keralite jewelers abroad. It is not a standard unit in other parts of India or internationally outside these specific contexts.
How does Pavan relate to Tola?
The Pavan and the Tola are distinct traditional Indian units of mass, primarily used for gold, but with different values.
- 1 Pavan = 8 grams
- 1 Tola ≈ 11.664 grams They are not directly related in a simple ratio and represent different weight standards originating from different influences (Pavan linked to the Sovereign coin, Tola having older roots). While both measure gold, they are used in different regions or contexts (Pavan dominant in Kerala, Tola historically more widespread and still used in other parts of India).
Pavan (India) Conversion Formulas
To Kilogram:
To Gram:
To Milligram:
To Pound:
To Ounce:
To Stone:
To Ton (metric):
To Ton (US):
To Ton (UK):
To Microgram:
To Carat:
To Slug:
To Troy Ounce:
To Pennyweight:
To Grain:
To Dram:
To Quintal:
To Atomic Mass Unit:
To Kati (India):
To Masha (India):
To Dina (India):
To Pras (India):
To Lota (India):
Convert Pavan (India)
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