At Viyaah UK, we understand that fashion is not just about what you wear it’s about identity, tradition, and expression. In the ever-evolving landscape of men’s accessories, one timeless piece stands out for its rich symbolism and rising popularity: the men’s mala necklace. Once primarily a spiritual tool, the mala has gracefully transitioned into the modern fashion world, resonating with both cultural pride and contemporary style.
Today, we explore how the mala necklace has evolved into a cherished item for men in the UK and beyond bridging cultures, enhancing outfits, and adding depth to the wearer’s presence.
Rooted in Culture, Worn with Pride
The mala necklace traces its roots to ancient South Asia, where it was traditionally used in meditation and prayer by sages, yogis, and monks. Comprising 108 beads, the mala was designed to assist practitioners in chanting mantras or prayers, each bead representing a count in spiritual recitation.
In Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism, the mala has deep religious and spiritual significance.
At Viyaah UK, we see men choosing malas to honour their heritage be it at weddings, festivals, spiritual gatherings, or even as daily-wear accessories that subtly reflect identity and belief.
Why Men in the UK are Embracing Mala Necklaces
With cultural pride becoming more visible in everyday fashion, men mala necklaces are now worn by individuals who appreciate their significance. In cities like London, Birmingham, Leicester, and Manchester where South Asian communities thrive mala necklaces are being reintroduced into the mainstream as style statements rooted in tradition.
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Cultural Connection: For many young British Asians, wearing a mala is a quiet yet powerful way of honouring their ancestry. It’s a wearable reminder of values, prayers, or blessings passed down through generations.
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Mindfulness & Spirituality: With wellness and meditation practices gaining popularity in the UK, mala beads have become essential tools for mindfulness. Men use them to focus during breathing exercises, yoga, or personal reflection.
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Style with Substance: The raw, earthy look of mala beads whether made from sandalwood, rudraksha, or gemstones adds a grounded, masculine edge to any outfit. They’re versatile enough to pair with ethnic wear or casual Western outfits.
Mala Necklaces as a Modern Fashion Accessory
While mala necklaces carry deep cultural meaning, they’ve also carved a niche in the fashion world. At Viyaah UK, we offer malas that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern elegance.
Men are no longer confined to limited accessories like watches or rings. Mala necklaces offer:
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Visual Texture: The natural beads provide tactile depth and colour contrast when paired with fabrics like linen, cotton, or wool.
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Layering Potential: Mala necklaces can be worn solo or layered with other chains or pendants to create a more expressive look.
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Adaptability: From casual streetwear to traditional South Asian attire, malas adapt effortlessly across wardrobes.
For men attending weddings or special events in the UK, especially those opting for a design shawl or turban, a mala necklace is the finishing touch that elevates the look from simple to significant.
The Mala, the Shawl & the Turban: A Cultural Trio
At Viyaah, we’ve noticed a powerful trend: combining men mala necklaces with design shawls and turban material UK to craft complete, regal looks. This trio exudes royalty, tradition, and personal style.
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Design Shawl: Drape a richly embroidered shawl over your shoulders and let the mala beads peek through for a layered, elegant aesthetic.
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Turban: Choose turban material that complements the colours of your mala. Silk, cotton blends, or brocade turbans work beautifully with natural wood or stone beads.
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Mala: Select a mala that matches your spiritual intention or outfit palette black onyx for power, rosewood for calm, or rudraksha for tradition.
Whether you’re a groom, a best man, or a guest at a multicultural wedding, this combination ensures you stand out with grace and purpose.
A Symbol of Masculinity and Mindfulness
Far from being just decorative, mala necklaces express a modern masculinity rooted in mindfulness, sensitivity, and purpose. In a time when men are encouraged to explore self-awareness, mental health, and spirituality, malas are more relevant than ever.
At Viyaah UK, many of our male customers choose mala necklaces as gifts for themselves or others, representing:
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Balance and Focus: Mala beads are often used in meditation or breathing exercises.
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Spiritual Growth: Many wear mala beads to mark personal journeys like recovering from grief, embracing new beginnings, or deepening a spiritual path.
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Grounded Style: Mala necklaces help men communicate inner strength in a quiet, confident way.
Sustainably Handmade, Ethically Sourced
All our mala necklaces at Viyaah UK are made with attention to detail and respect for tradition. Sourced from artisans in India and Nepal, our malas are handmade using time-honoured techniques and natural materials like:
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Rudraksha beads (symbolizing protection and strength)
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Sandalwood (known for calming properties)
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Gemstones (each with specific energetic attributes)
We believe in conscious fashion jewellery that looks good and feels meaningful. Supporting artisans helps keep cultural craftsmanship alive, while offering our UK customers a truly authentic product.
How to Wear a Mala Necklace
It’s all about intention and confidence. Here are some ideas for how to style them:
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With a Kurta or Sherwani: Perfect for weddings, Diwali, or pooja ceremonies.
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With a Linen Shirt and Jeans: Add an earthy mala to balance a casual look with spiritual energy.
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Layered with a Shawl and Turban: For grooms or cultural celebrations, this creates a regal, picture-perfect look.
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Under a Suit or Blazer: Let the beads peek subtly for a modern twist on traditional accessories.
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Explore our exclusive range of men mala necklaces, design shawls, and premium turban material in the UK at Viyaah.co.uk where culture meets craftsmanship.