Types of Maang Tikka: Names, Styles and How to Wear Them
The maang tikka is the head ornament that sits on the hair parting with a pendant on the forehead. It is one of the most recognisable pieces of Indian bridal jewellery, and it comes in many regional forms. In English it is usually called a forehead ornament or head jewellery. Here are the main types, with their names and when to wear each.
Types of maang tikka with names
- Classic maang tikka - a single chain along the parting with a pendant on the forehead. The most common style across North India.
- Matha patti - a maang tikka with extra chains that run along the hairline on both sides. Grand and bridal.
- Passa (jhoomar) - a fan-shaped ornament worn on one side of the head, typical of Muslim and Punjabi bridal looks.
- Borla (rakhdi) - a round, bell-like ornament worn at the centre of the forehead in Rajasthan. Read Rajasthani bridal jewellery.
- Nethi chutti - the South Indian version, often with sun and moon side ornaments. Read nethi chutti vs maang tikka.
- Tikli - a small Bengali forehead ornament.
- Papidi billa - the Telugu bridal forehead ornament.
- Bor - a small round tikka worn in parts of Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Types of bridal maang tikka
For brides, the choice is usually between:
- A large classic tikka with a big pendant - elegant and simple.
- A matha patti - for a grand, regal look with a lehenga.
- A passa with a tikka - for a Nikah or a Punjabi wedding.
- A nethi chutti - for a South Indian silk saree look.
Which maang tikka suits a round face?
For a round face, choose a tikka with a long chain and a drop-shaped or long pendant. It adds length and draws the eye down the centre of the face. Avoid very wide, round pendants that sit high on the forehead. Read jewellery for your face shape.
- Oval face: almost any style works.
- Long face: a matha patti adds width.
- Heart face: a small tikka with a delicate pendant.
- Square face: a round or teardrop pendant softens the jaw line.
How to wear a maang tikka
1. Part your hair in the middle (or to the side for a passa).
2. Place the pendant where you want it on the forehead - at the hairline or just below.
3. Run the chain along the parting to the back.
4. Hook it into the hair at the crown, and secure with two or three bobby pins crossed over the chain.
5. For a matha patti, pin the side chains behind the ears.
6. Check in a mirror that the pendant is centred.
Keeping it in place all day
- Use at least two bobby pins, crossed.
- Tease the hair slightly at the crown so the hook has something to grip.
- Choose a lighter tikka for long events and dancing. Read sangeet jewellery.
Maang tikka with different hairstyles
- Bun: the classic bridal look; the tikka chain meets the bun.
- Braid: the chain hooks into the top of the braid.
- Open hair: pin the chain under the top layer of hair.
Which type of maang tikka is best?
The best maang tikka is the one that matches your outfit and your hairstyle:
- With a heavy lehenga: a matha patti or a large classic tikka.
- With a silk saree: a nethi chutti or a medium classic tikka.
- With an anarkali or sharara: a passa with a small tikka.
- For guests and festivals: a small, light classic tikka.
Maang tikka for guests and festivals
Maang tikkas are not only for brides. A small tikka with a single drop adds a festive touch for Diwali, Karva Chauth, Navratri or a friend's wedding, without looking bridal. Keep it light so you can wear it for hours.
Frequently asked questions
What is maang tikka called in English?
Usually a forehead ornament or head jewellery.
What is the difference between a maang tikka and a matha patti?
A maang tikka has one chain along the parting; a matha patti adds chains along the hairline on both sides.
Which maang tikka is best for a bride?
It depends on the look: a large tikka or matha patti with a lehenga, a nethi chutti with a South Indian saree, a passa for a Punjabi or Muslim wedding.