A travelling exhibition dedicated to the cultural and artistic significance of the mookuthi, or traditional nose ornament, is being held in Visakhapatnam. The Mookuthi Show presents nose ornaments not simply as jewellery, but as pieces connected to identity, memory, craftsmanship and self-expression. 

The exhibition was created by Chennai-based designer Sarath Selvanathan, who began exploring nose ornaments after designing one for a friend in 2015. The collections that followed draw inspiration from South Indian architecture, traditional crafts and familiar cultural motifs. 

The nine collections bring together different jewellery-making techniques, materials and stories. The brand's collections include inspirations such as Athangudi tiles, Kolam designs, temple architecture, jasmine-adorned Kondai hairstyles and traditional artistic forms. 

Unlike a conventional jewellery display, the Visakhapatnam show is designed as an immersive experience. Visitors can touch and try selected ornaments, explore their craftsmanship and, if they wish, get their noses pierced at the venue. 

 

The Mookuthi Show in Visakhapatnam is taking place from September 25 to 27, 2026, between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. at AARNA, Balaji R Square, Harbour Park Road, Pandurangapuram.