The popularity of Indian jewelry can be gauged by its frequent mention in Bollywood songs like “Jhumka Gira Re,” “Mujhe Naulakha Mangwa De Re,” and “Mere Haathon Mein Nau Nau Choodiyan Hain.” Traditional Indian jewelry, such as maang teekas, bangles, and necklaces, not only adds magnificence to your looks but also reflects our ancient traditions and rich culture. The maang teeka, worn at the centre of the forehead, symbolizes the sacred union of a man and woman and protects the bride from evil energy. It has now become a fashion statement and is worn by women during festivals and special occasions.
Historical Background
Maang teekas have been a part of Indian traditional jewellery since times immemorial and were often adorned by queens and members of the royal family. They have held great significance in Indian bridal jewellery for centuries and are believed to bring prosperity and good luck to a wedding. Maang teekas have evolved with time and different versions are becoming popular based on individual tastes and preferences.
Cultural Significance
The maang teeka holds cultural importance in most parts of India. It symbolizes the marital union of a couple and is a quintessential part of the solah shringar worn by brides in North India. It is also an integral part of weddings in Southern India, where it is popularly known as nethichutti. In states like Rajasthan and Gujarat, maang teekas are worn during weddings and festivals like Teej and Navratri.
Types of Maang Teekas
Different varieties of maang teeka are worn across different regions and cultures. Let us have a look at a few patterns of maang teeka that are most popular.
1. Sheeshpatti
The sheeshpatti is a traditional ornament worn across the forehead during weddings and festive occasions. Westernized versions of these are also worn with fusion ensembles blending traditional elegance with contemporary fashion.
2. Matha Patti
An eye-catching maang teeka made of kundan, polki, and other precious gems, it features an exquisite centrepiece and multiple strands that extend across the forehead. This maang teeka is most commonly worn by brides, giving them an alluring and elegant look.
3. Passa
A traditional accessory originating from the Mughal era is generally worn by brides. It is a fan-shaped accessory worn on the left side of the head and gives the bride an appealing look.
Maang Teekas in Weddings
Be it a red Banarasi saree, a kundan embroidered lehenga or a heavily embellished anarkali suit, no wedding outfit is complete without Indian bridal jewellery that adds extra flair to your looks on your special day. Maang teekas are a must-have piece of bridal jewellery and a key part of our deep-rooted traditions. Bridal maang teekas also play a crucial role in the sindoor ceremony which solemnizes the wedding of a couple and can raise your fashion quotient.
Modern Trends
Maang teekas are not just famous for the high value they hold in our customs and traditions but also because they can make you look glamorous and classy. They are, in fact, a game changer and can transform your elegant look into one that is spellbinding and awe-inspiring. While traditional maang teekas made of kundan, polki or temple jewellery continue to be a hot favourite with ethnic attires, modern brides these days are adorning minimalistic maang teekas made of diamond and other gems with Indo western dresses and gowns as well. The gold finish kundan studded mathapatti with pearls from KALKI paired with a contemporary outfit will help you make a striking statement at your reception ceremony.
Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities have also been smitten by the charm of maang teekas and are often seen adorning them with both ethnic and contemporary outfits. Fashion icons Kim and Khloe Kardashian were seen wearing maang teekas with their Indo western outfits at the wedding of the century—the Ambani wedding. Bollywood celebrities like Alia Bhatt and Janhvi Kapoor also looked ethereal, pairing their traditional outfits with a maang teeka. KALKI has a large variety of maang teekas that can add an oomph factor to your looks on special occasions.
Styling Tips
The love for maang teekas can be noticed as they are not only adorned by brides but also by bridesmaids and other guests. They have become a staple in every woman’s wardrobe. Traditional maang teekas, when paired with ethnic attires like sarees, lehenga cholis, or salwar suits, can make you look stunning. Sleek and delicate ones look best when paired with bridal gowns and draped skirt sets. Centre-parted hair and low-hair buns are two hairstyles that complement maang teekas very well. For a trendy look, you can also opt for open hair with loose curls to look chic.
KALKI has a large variety of stunning traditional Indian jewelry and Indian accessories that can make you look spectacular at weddings and festive occasions. If you wish to buy necklace sets, bangles, rings, kadas, and maang teeka online log into kalkifashion.com and shop to your heart’s content.
Also Read: Saree Trends 2024: The Hottest Styles and Colours This Year
