Weddings are a grand celebration of love, culture, and personal style — a day when every detail matters, especially the groom’s attire. While the bride’s outfit often takes the spotlight, the modern groom’s look has evolved into an equally regal affair. From intricately embroidered sherwanis to luxurious turban material and elegant accessories, every element contributes to his royal charm. Among these, one accessory that stands out as a symbol of grace and heritage is the men mala.
Once reserved for kings and nobles, the men mala has made a strong comeback in contemporary wedding fashion, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern flair. Today, it represents not only cultural richness but also personal expression the perfect finishing touch for a groom who wants to look both classic and sophisticated.
The Cultural Legacy of Men Mala
Historically, the men mala was a sign of royalty and spiritual balance. Kings, warriors, and noblemen wore malas made of precious stones or pearls to symbolize their status and strength. In Indian weddings, the mala has retained its cultural depth, signifying purity, prosperity, and honour.
For grooms, wearing a mala is more than just a fashion statement it’s a tribute to tradition. It complements ceremonial attire like the sherwani or achkan, and often ties together other accessories such as the brooch, Men Shawl, and turban, creating a coordinated and majestic look.
The modern interpretation of the men mala has expanded beyond tradition, embracing innovative designs, materials, and layers to suit diverse wedding themes from royal to minimalist.
Types of Traditional Men Mala Designs
Viyaah UK and other leading designers have reimagined the men mala into an accessory that speaks of luxury, culture, and individuality. Here are some of the most popular and timeless styles:
1. Pearl Mala – The Classic Symbol of Royalty
Nothing exudes elegance like pearls. A multi-layered pearl mala enhances the regal aura of the groom, especially when paired with an ivory or cream sherwani. Pearls signify purity and peace, making them an ideal choice for wedding ceremonies steeped in tradition.
2. Kundan Mala – The Heritage Masterpiece
Kundan malas are crafted with embedded gemstones set in gold, reflecting the artistry of Mughal-era jewellery. These malas look exceptional with richly embroidered sherwanis and ornate turbans, giving the groom a majestic, king-like appearance.
3. Polki Mala – The Vintage Statement
Polki stones, known for their uncut natural beauty, are a symbol of old-world charm. A Polki mala, with its subtle sparkle and earthy tones, beautifully balances grandeur with sophistication perfect for evening receptions or royal-themed weddings.
4. Rudraksha Mala – A Spiritual Touch
For grooms who want a deeper spiritual connection on their big day, a Rudraksha mala is a meaningful choice. Traditionally worn for protection and serenity, it brings a sacred dimension to the groom’s attire, especially when paired with neutral or earthy outfits.
5. Beaded Gemstone Mala – A Modern Classic
Gemstone malas crafted with emeralds, rubies, or sapphires introduce vibrant colour to the groom’s look. They are ideal for those who want to add a personal touch or match the wedding theme colours. Whether single or multi-stranded, gemstone malas add a touch of luxury that feels both traditional and modern.
6. Layered Mala – The Royal Grandeur
Layered malas, often crafted with pearls or mixed beads, are the epitome of regal fashion. They drape beautifully across the chest and create a bold, confident look. When paired with an embellished Men Shawl, this style completes the ensemble with unmatched sophistication.
The Art of Pairing: Styling Your Men Mala
Choosing the right men mala involves understanding how it complements the rest of the wedding attire. The goal is harmony between colour, texture, and design.
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With Sherwani: A Kundan or Polki mala enhances a richly embroidered sherwani. Choose gold or pastel tones for a royal aesthetic.
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With Indo-Western Outfits: Gemstone or beaded malas bring modern flair to fusion attire.
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With Kurta Sets: For pre-wedding events like haldi or mehndi, a single-strand pearl or wooden mala adds a subtle, elegant touch.
Pairing the mala with a turban material that matches the embroidery or accent colour creates a unified look. For example, a deep maroon turban with golden detailing pairs perfectly with a Kundan mala and beige sherwani.
Adding a Men Shawl draped elegantly over one shoulder can complete the royal vibe, balancing the mala’s ornamentation with fabric flow and texture.
Colour and Design Trends for 2025 Grooms
Today’s grooms are embracing individuality through their accessories. The latest trends in men mala design include:
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Muted Metallics: Antique gold and oxidized silver tones that give a sophisticated vintage look.
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Earthy and Gemstone Shades: Emerald greens, ruby reds, and sapphire blues remain timeless favourites.
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Minimalism: Single-layer malas with sleek beads or pearls for an understated, modern vibe.
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Mix-and-Match: Combining pearls with gemstones for a custom, layered appearance.
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Cultural Revival: Reviving traditional craftsmanship like meenakari, filigree, and temple designs.
These trends reflect a blend of tradition and innovation, ensuring that the groom’s accessories remain timeless while still feeling contemporary.
The Emotional Value of a Men Mala
Beyond aesthetics, the men mala carries emotional and symbolic significance. It’s often chosen with great care, sometimes gifted by family members or the bride herself. This gesture symbolizes blessings, respect, and the merging of two families.
In some cultures, the groom’s mala is seen as a counterpart to the bride’s jewellery both representing commitment and prosperity. As such, investing in a well-crafted mala is not merely about completing the outfit but also about preserving a piece of tradition that holds sentimental meaning.
Choosing the Right Men Mala for Your Wedding
When selecting the perfect men mala, consider:
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Wedding Theme: A royal theme calls for multi-layered pearl or Kundan malas, while a minimalist ceremony may suit a single-strand beaded design.
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Outfit Colour: Match the tones of the mala to your sherwani or contrast for a statement effect.
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Comfort: Ensure the mala is lightweight and sits comfortably around the neck, especially during long ceremonies.
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Balance: Avoid over-accessorizing. The mala should complement other elements like brooches, turbans, and shawls rather than compete with them.
At Viyaah UK, our collection includes meticulously handcrafted men malas designed to capture the essence of elegance, heritage, and individuality. Each piece is created with precision and artistry, using the finest materials to ensure both comfort and sophistication.
The Final Touch of Royalty
A well-chosen men mala has the power to transform an ordinary groom into a picture of regality. It’s a statement piece that connects the past with the present a symbol of heritage redefined for the modern man.
When styled with premium turban material, an ornate sherwani, and a graceful Men Shawl, the mala completes a look that is nothing short of majestic. Whether inspired by royal traditions or modern minimalism, a men mala remains an enduring emblem of dignity, pride, and celebration.
