Bollywood-Inspired Bejeweled Headpieces: Celebrity Trends and Cultural Sensitivity

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A few years ago, there was a surge in Bollywood-inspired fashion, with many celebrities incorporating bejeweled headpieces into their ensembles. The bindi, a colored dot traditionally worn on the center of the forehead by Hindu and Jain women, became a popular accessory among stars like Gwen Stefani, Nicole Scherzinger, and Khloe Kardashian.

While visually striking and exotic, the bindi is a significant religious symbol and should not be used merely as a fashion accessory. Selena Gomez faced backlash for wearing a bindi during her performances, drawing criticism from the Hindu community.

In response to the controversy, many celebrities have opted for bejeweled headdresses instead. These accessories capture the same exotic Bollywood vibe without the cultural insensitivity of wearing a bindi.

Tasmin Lucia-Khan dazzles in a bejeweled headpiece at the British Asian Trust PartyTasmin Lucia-Khan dazzles in a bejeweled headpiece at the British Asian Trust Party (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

Tasmin Lucia-Khan shines at the British Asian Trust Party at the Victoria and Albert Museum, LondonTasmin Lucia-Khan shines at the British Asian Trust Party at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, on February 5, 2014 (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

Paris Hilton exudes elegance with her blonde curls and sparkling diamante headdressParis Hilton exudes elegance with her blonde curls and sparkling diamante headdress (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

Paris Hilton's dazzling diamante headdress steals the spotlight at CannesParis Hilton’s dazzling diamante headdress steals the spotlight at Cannes (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

Paris Hilton stuns in a flowing white Grecian-style halterneck gown at de Grisogono's party during Cannes Film FestivalParis Hilton stuns in a flowing white Grecian-style halterneck gown at de Grisogono’s party during the Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2013 (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

Alicia Keys graces Paris Fashion Week with a stunning bejeweled headdress at the Chanel Ready-To-Wear showAlicia Keys graces Paris Fashion Week with a stunning bejeweled headdress at the Chanel Ready-To-Wear show on March 6, 2012, in Paris, France (Credit: WENN / Lia Toby / Visual)

These bejeweled headpieces and headdresses can be expensive, as many are adorned with diamonds and other precious stones. If you’re looking for a similar glamorous look without breaking the bank, consider these beautiful and affordable alternatives:

Dauphines of New York December Birthday Party HeadbandDauphines of New York December Birthday Party Headband, $80

Dauphines of New York The Temptress HeadbandDauphines of New York The Temptress Headband, $75

LELET NY Lattice Lace Crystal HeadbandLELET NY Lattice Lace Crystal Headband, $330