Jewellery03 Jun 20253 MIN

The 2025 bridal maang tikka guide

From the mehndi to the mandap—whether bold, brilliant or barely-there—discover the perfect one, matched to your style, celebration, and bridal personality

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Artwork by Jagruti Tambe

As a bride checks off her jewellery wishlist—heirloom necklaces, cocktail rings, not-your-usual string of pearls, statement earrings—most pieces fall effortlessly into place. But the one jewel that somehow slips through the planning cracks (despite being the first thing everyone notices) is the crown jewel of the Indian bridal arsenal: the maang tikka. Whether you’re making your mandap entrance or caught mid-laugh at the sangeet, that sparkler up top holds serious face-card power. No pressure. Luckily, we’ve done the homework, so you don’t have to.

Today, the maang tikka is anything but predictable. Brides are choosing bold diamond sparklers, gemstone-studded curves, minimalist drops, and even organic floral flourishes. The result? A look that feels utterly personal and effortlessly cool. This shoppable edit brings together styles we love for every kind of bride—whether you’re a “diamonds are forever” romantic, a “must-have-drama” diva, or a “flower power” enthusiast, you’ll find your perfect match here. Because the right maang tikka doesn’t just sit pretty—it defines the frame, anchors the aesthetic, and yes, occasionally outshines everything else.

‘Coz diamonds are a bride’s best friend

The diamond maang tikka isn’t just luminous—it’s the sparkly scene stealer. Whether pavé-set or haloed in brilliance, these pieces play with light almost as much as your wedding photographer does. They pair just as effortlessly with sculptural buns as they do with sleek, centre-parted waves—perfect for the reception or sangeet. For the bride who believes timeless doesn't have to mean subtle, look no further.

More is definitely more

At the big fat Indian wedding, maximalism always fits right in. So, if you love the drama, grandeur and pomp of ceremony, tradition and heritage all rolled into a party in your honour, you have found your match. From pheras to the sangeet, we’re talking a massive studded pendant, oversized motifs, and an unapologetic scale that balances opulence with Insta-perfect selfies.

But less can be more too

For the more understated, considered and classically elegant these pieces bring restraint to the spotlight. Thin strands, soft glints, and delicate detailing make these a perfect choice for you if you prefer clean lines and an overall minimal aesthetic. Ideal for modern silhouettes, intimate ceremonies (think everything from the mehendi to the wedding), and the bride who edits ruthlessly. The sort of quiet luxury that speaks volumes.

It’s giving royalty in colour

If you love a splash of colour—there’s no place it pops more than on your forehead (even more than that fuchsia lip or red pout). And a burst of colour never hurt a crown, after all. So, embrace that modern maharani vibe with those deep red rubies or intense green emeralds—and let these gemstone tikkas be a part of your biggest celebrations.

Bridal but in full bloom

A wedding is incomplete without flowers—be it the décor, the garlands, bridal bouquets, or tucked beautifully into your hair. But Floral Art by Srishti makes flowers into jewellery and gorgeous bridal accessories—be it bracelets, earrings, or even maang tikkas. So, for the brides who love a floral motif, these tikkas are perfect for your mehendi, haldi, or even for that al fresco resort vibe.

Make it fashion

This is not your grandmother’s maang tikka. These are designed for the bride who might style her tikka with a veil, a blazer, or both. Spherical gold rods or delicate mirrors and hearts, all bring a contemporary sartorial vibe to a timeless and traditional accessory. Each tikka is a fashion moment waiting to happen—so grab these in time for your pre-wedding shoot and make a statement, or sling one on for your cocktail and dance the night away.

For the love of pearls

We’re already obsessing over all things pearls. So why not add a few drops to your maang tikka and really embrace that bridal feeling? Soft, luminous, and endlessly romantic—pearls bring an easy elegance and elevate any look. These tikkas play best with pastel palettes, dewy skin, and heirloom textiles—we’re thinking pheras in a vineyard or a heritage palace. Some are classic, others more playful—so find your vibe, be it statement or subtle.

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