Mumbai dialled up the glamour as Rihanna arrived in India for the launch event of Fenty Beauty. But before one could talk about the beauty launch, it was her desi style statement that stole the spotlight.
The pop sensation chose a striking diamond haathphool by Manish Malhotra, styled across two solid looks, a yellowish-olive green flowy dress and a fitted black gown. The moment wasn’t just about fashion. It showed a cultural crossover where traditional Indian adornments shine on global celebrities.
Did Rihanna break the haathphool?
Rihanna’s first look featuring a voluminous yellow-green ensemble was paired with a haathphool along with the bracelet, ring, and bangle from Sabyasachi High Jewellery. For her second appearance, The Loyalty singer switched to an all-black outfit, retaining the diamond haathphool, letting the statement accessory take centre stage.
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A brief moment added to the buzz online when the haathphool appeared to snap as Rihanna posed for paparazzi. She was seen adjusting it mid-click, sparking chatter online if the haathphool was broken or detachable. However, Manish Malhotra High Jewellery quickly clarified via Instagram that the piece was designed to be detachable, putting speculation to rest.
The Manish Malhotra haathphool
The Manish Malhotra haathphool worn by Rihanna is reportedly crafted over 2400 hours.
With its sculptural design and intricate detailing, it reimagines the traditional haathphool through a contemporary lens with a floral design.
What is a haathphool and why is it trending?
A haathphool is a traditional Indian hand ornament that connects a bracelet to one or more rings through delicate chains, often worn during weddings and festive occasions.
What’s driving its resurgence today is its reinvention; designers are transforming it into a sculptural, fashion-forward accessory.
Rihanna’s styling proves its versatility: it can complement a sari just as effortlessly as it can elevate a modern Western outfit.
About Rihanna’s Fenty Launch
This marks Rihanna’s return to Mumbai after her visit in 2024 for the wedding celebrations of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. She walked the black carpet alongside Isha Ambani, who wore an embellished look from Dior’s Spring 2026 collection. The star-studded evening also saw names like Manish Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor at the event.
Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty on September 8, 2017, in partnership with LVMH. The brand revolutionised the beauty industry with its inclusive approach, debuting a foundation range of 40 shades catering to diverse skin tones. Beyond beauty, Rihanna continues to hold global records—she remains the first female solo artist to sell out 10 concerts at London’s The O2 Arena.
