A wave of nostalgia is sweeping through social media platforms this week as thousands of users join in on the viral Asoka makeup trend. This trend draws inspiration from the 2001 Hindi film of the same name, capturing the essence of Indian bridal beauty and cultural heritage. In Asoka, actors Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, depict a fictionalised account of the legendary Mauryan emperor Ashoka the Great. Set in ancient India during the third century B.C.E., the movie showcases regal attire and intricate makeup styles reminiscent of the era.
The Asoka Makeup Trend
The Asoka makeup trend has creators from diverse cultural backgrounds participating, donning Indian bridal hair, makeup, and attire while syncing their transformations to the beat of the movie’s iconic song, San Sanana. While the film itself may not feature modern bridal wear, its bold colours, dramatic makeup, and ornate jewellery have become the hallmark of the trend.
A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
On platforms like Instagram and TikTok, creators document their Asoka-inspired makeovers through captivating transitions. Some South Asian creators go beyond contemporary bridal looks, meticulously recreating the traditional styles showcased in the film.
As the trend gained momentum, it not only provided entertainment but also served as an educational platform, offering insights into the rich heritage of Indian bridal beauty and acting as a cultural connector across global communities. Unlike other makeup comparison trends that explore makeup looks of various countries and eras, the Asoka makeup trend focuses on achieving an Indian bridal look.
In this trend, emphasis is placed on defining the eyes dramatically using dark kohl, eyeliners, and heavy mascaras. Eyeshadows in shades of gold, bronze with the incorporation of a "bindi" and intricate designs created with "kajal" or "eyeliner" adds a traditional touch that enhances the overall aesthetic.
Furthermore, the choice of lip colour varies based on the preferences of the bride or artist. Some opt for bold reds or deep maroons to make a statement, while others prefer nude or pink shades for a more subtle look. Regardless of the lip colour chosen, it harmonises with the subdued tones of the base makeup, enhancing the overall appeal.
Lastly, no Indian bridal look is complete without the opulent adornment of jewellery. From ornate headpieces like the "Maang Tikka" to elaborate necklaces, earrings, and bangles, each piece is meticulously selected to complement the attire and makeup, adding a touch of elegance and grandeur to the ensemble.
The key element that has propelled this trend is the use of transitions, wherein each makeup step is meticulously showcased, leading to the final reveal in a captivating red light setup. This technique adds a sense of anticipation and drama, setting the stage for a perfect look reveal.
However, the intricate nature of these transitions means that executing a single makeup look can often take hours. In fact, some users have disclosed spending up to six to ten hours to complete the Asoka trend due to its elaborate process.
Take a look at a few videos:
Initially, the trend garnered participation from artists of diverse cultural backgrounds and regions, each offering their own interpretation of the Asoka makeup. However, as with any trend that gains widespread popularity, there comes a point of saturation where it risks becoming overused and repetitive.
As the Asoka trend enters its second month, some individuals have expressed frustration with its prolonged duration, leading to the creation of mock videos.
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