way ahead of ya sunshine, brother got married a few years ago, I told him to demand a lota in dowry.
a stainless steel one is best. med weight, if its too heavy to start with then with water its tougher to use.
some ppl like the matte finish, the peetal ka lota, they are classic and light but I dont like the look. a chrome finish stainless steel one is the best.
the key is that the top of the lota must be grip friendly.
all the best.
Good for you, keep such suggestions for your family only...because no one else wants such advices :)