Tikkas, Nath, Jhoomar: Forgotten Favourites of Traditional Hyderabadi Bridal Jewellery
Every bride wants to look timeless on her big day. But while the world chases trends, something magical gets left behind. The Tikkas, the Nath, the Jhoomar, these pieces once defined the beauty of a Hyderabadi bride, yet today they quietly sit in the shadows of modern bridal sets.
In this blog, we’ll bring these iconic ornaments back into the spotlight. You’ll rediscover the meaning, history, and bridal charm of each one. And we’ll show you how to style them beautifully with your wedding look. This is not just about jewellery. It’s about reviving Hyderabadi bridal heritage.
The Jhoomar: The Royal Side of the Bride
Also known as Passa, the Jhoomar is worn on the side of the head, resting just above the temple. It first appeared in the Mughal era and became a staple in Nizami bridal jewellery. In Hyderabadi weddings, the Jhoomar isn’t just an accessory. It’s a symbol of royalty.
The design usually features pearls, polkis or uncut diamonds, arranged in a fan or crescent shape. When the bride walks, the Jhoomar gently sways, drawing attention to the eyes and adding an old-world charm that no matha patti can replace.
Today, many brides miss out on this treasure. But at Heerabhai, we’ve seen how one piece of handcrafted Jhoomar can transform a bride’s look from modern to mesmerising. Especially for those looking for an Islamic bridal jewellery touch, this piece is a must-have.
The Tikka: The Centrepiece of Grace
No Hyderabadi bridal jewellery set is complete without the Tikka. Placed right in the centre of the forehead, it marks the union of elegance and tradition. Its origin traces back to the concept of the third eye, believed to protect the bride from negativity on her wedding day.
In most Hyderabadi weddings, the bride wears both a Tikka and a Jhoomar. The Tikka grounds the look, bringing balance to the overall style. A Tikka bridal jewellery design can vary from bold to minimal, but it always holds cultural depth.
Brides today may choose matha pattis or modern hair chains, but the humble Tikka remains irreplaceable in traditional Hyderabadi jewellery. Especially when it features real polki or kundan work, the aura it brings is unmatched.
The Nath: A Symbol of Beauty and Blessing
Among all the pieces, the Nath for brides carries the most emotion. It is worn not just for style but as a blessing from the maternal side of the family. It symbolises grace, respect, and a connection to ancestry.
In the Nizami bridal jewellery tradition, the Nath is often large, circular, and decorated with delicate chains or gemstone drops. Brides in Hyderabad used to wear it as a mark of pride. Today, some shy away from it, thinking it’s too heavy or too vintage.
But we’ve seen it at Heerabhai, when a bride tries on a Nath that fits her face, her whole demeanour changes. There’s something deeply graceful about it. For women who want to embrace heritage bridal jewellery, this piece brings soul to the outfit.
Why Are These Pieces Fading Away?
With modern bridal trends leaning towards minimalism, many young brides avoid heavier or traditional ornaments. But in doing so, we risk losing the soul of Hyderabad jewellery heritage.
Reviving these ornaments isn’t about rejecting modernity. It’s about blending the two. A bride can wear a designer lehenga with a classic Jhoomar. Or pair a lightweight Nath with a contemporary hairstyle. At Heerabhai, we create exactly this balance.
FAQs
1. Can I wear both a Tikka and Jhoomar together?
A. Yes. In fact, in the Hyderabadi bride look, the Tikka and Jhoomar combination is iconic. They frame the face beautifully and enhance the bridal aura.
2. What kind of Nath suits a round face?
A. Go for a slightly elongated bridal Nath style with a soft curve and minimal embellishment. This gives definition to round features.
3. Are these ornaments heavy to wear?
A. With today’s craftsmanship, even elaborate bridal head jewellery can be made lightweight without losing its grandeur.
4. Where can I buy authentic Hyderabadi bridal jewellery?
A. Heerabhai offers handcrafted designs inspired by the royal Nizami bridal look. You can explore our range in-store or reach us online.
This blog was created to honour the richness of traditional Hyderabadi jewellery. At Heerabhai, we believe jewellery should tell a story. Our collections are rooted in heritage and designed for the modern Indian bride. From timeless bridal pieces to custom wedding sets, we help you embrace your culture with pride.
Visit our website or step into our store to experience the world of Hyderabadi bridal jewellery. Follow us on Instagram to see how brides across the country are reviving these forgotten favourites.