The sherwani gets all the attention, but it is the groom mala (dulha mala) that finishes the look. A well-chosen mala adds royal detail to the outfit and looks great in photos. It can also lift a plain sherwani into something memorable.
This guide explains the main types of groom malas, how to match one to your sherwani colour, and our favourite designs for the 2026 wedding season. Every design here is under ₹800 and ships free across India.
Why the Groom Mala Matters
In most Indian weddings the groom wears the mala from the baraat to the pheras, so it is in almost every photo. A layered mala adds depth to a plain sherwani, balances a heavy safa (turban), and gives the outfit a traditional, royal finish that a brooch alone cannot.
Types of Groom Malas
1. Multi-Layer White Pearl Mala
This is the classic choice. Several strands of white pearls fall in layers across the chest, often with a designer centrepiece. It suits ivory, cream, gold and pastel sherwanis and never goes out of style.
2. Pearl and Coloured Bead Mala
Here white pearls are mixed with coloured beads in red, pink, turquoise or maroon. This lets you pick up a colour from your safa, dupatta or the bride’s lehenga, and the whole look feels more coordinated.
3. Kundan Brooch Mala
This type has a kundan or stone-studded brooch at the centre. It gives a more regal, Rajputana-style look and pairs well with heavy embroidered or velvet sherwanis.
4. Spiritual Pendant Mala
These malas carry a pendant such as Radha Krishna. They are a meaningful choice for the pheras, puja ceremonies and grooms who want a devotional touch.
How to Match Your Mala with Your Sherwani
| Sherwani colour | Best mala choice |
|---|---|
| Ivory / Cream / Off-white | White pearl with red or maroon beads, for contrast |
| Gold / Beige | Multi-layer white pearl with a gold-tone pendant |
| Pastel pink / Peach | White pearl with pink beads |
| Maroon / Red | All-white pearl, so the mala stands out |
| Navy / Royal blue / Teal | Pearl with turquoise beads |
| Purple / Wine | Purple pearl mala with kundan brooch |
Quick rule: If your sherwani is heavily embroidered, choose a simpler mala. If your sherwani is plain, go for more layers or a bold centrepiece.
Our Top Groom Mala Picks for 2026
Explore the full groom mala collection, with free shipping across India.
Shop Groom MalasTips to Wear and Care for Your Groom Mala
- Length: The longest layer should sit just above the waist, over the sherwani buttons.
- Order early: Order 2–3 weeks before the wedding, so you have time for a trial with the full outfit.
- Keep it dry: Put it on after perfume and keep it away from water to protect the pearl shine.
- Store it flat: Keep it in a box or zip pouch so the strands do not tangle.
- Coordinate: Match the mala bead colour with your safa or the bride’s outfit for better photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dulha mala?
A dulha mala (groom mala) is a decorative necklace that the groom wears over the sherwani. It is usually made of layered pearls or beads with a centrepiece, and the groom wears it throughout the wedding ceremonies.
How much does a groom mala cost?
On PUCHO Store, groom malas start at around ₹599 and most designs are under ₹800, with free shipping across India.
Which mala is best for an ivory sherwani?
A white pearl mala with red, maroon or pink beads gives good contrast against an ivory sherwani and looks better in photos.
Can the groom wear the mala for other functions?
Yes. A lighter pearl mala also works for the sangeet, reception, engagement or as a style piece at family weddings.
Find the right mala for your big day and complete your look with PUCHO Store.
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