Once the ceremonial crown jewel of South Asian brides, the maang tikka is shaking off its traditional connotations for a well-deserved solo act. No longer confined to pheras and vidaais, it’s moving beyond the bridal altar—onto cocktail-night dance floors, mehendi lunches, and most notably, friends and family of the bride and groom.
Because, being a wedding guest is no easy job, especially if you’re attending a big fat Indian wedding with multiple occasions that demand that you make an effort. And while you don’t want to overshadow the bride herself, there’s still plenty of opportunity to up your jewellery game with a maang tikka.
The latest versions of this jewelled accessory are anything but demure. Think Hazoorilal Legacy’s teardrop tikkas framed in emeralds and diamonds, or Goenka India’s vintage-style ruby-centred renditions—ornamentation that holds its own in a sea of sequins and shimmer. Even more pared-back ones are turning heads: Kantilal Chhotalal’s delicate emerald clusters bring just the right dose of opulence.
For those leaning into fashion’s irreverent side, there’s Outhouse’s sculptural mini tikkas or Dhora India’s artisanal sunflower-shaped version—meant to be worn with second-day waves and just a touch of highlighter. You can even get something ultra-traditional, like Isharya’s mirror-studded baali, and wear it with a chic brocade trouser suit.
So, whether you choose something with rubies or emeralds, crystals or woven metal, there’s a maang tikka for you. Scroll below for versions that are statement-making, selfie-ready, and, increasingly, cool.
