Tanya Maniktala On The Game-Changing Style Secret She’s Learned On The Job

Whether it’s her standout performances in big hitters like Mira Nair’s adaptation of A Suitable Boy and the Dharma action thriller Kill or her big, expressive eyes, Tanya Maniktala has established herself as a force to be reckoned with. With her steadily growing fan base, the actress is slowly adjusting to life as a public figure and all that it entails, including dressing the part.

“It’s taken me a while to truly understand the importance of fashion and styling for self-expression,” she says, “I've learned a lot on the job, and now I pay much more attention to the type of fabric, how it drapes on my body, and what makes me feel comfortable and confident. Fashion has improved what I already possess.”

While her go-to style is “loose, baggy clothes, and clothes that let me move around in a lot”, Tanya feels her relationship with fashion is evolving along the journey. “I’ve become much more experimental with my style now. Comfort still comes first for me; I’m not the type to wear something that looks good but is uncomfortable. When you’re uncomfortable, it shows and people around you notice. So, I’ve become more thoughtful about what I wear, realising that small details; like accessories, fabric choices, or colours that make you pop can make a huge difference.”

With Diwali right around the corner, Tanya sat with Manifest to decode her festive season style, the fashion faux pas people should avoid, a style tip that she’s learned on the job and more…

In Conversation With Tanya Maniktala

Manifest: Can you share some of your fondest memories of the festive season?

Tanya Maniktala: My fondest festive memories are of getting ready with my sister, both of us wearing oxidised jewellery. It’s such a Delhi-girl thing to do—putting on big jhumkas, kajal, a bindi, and accessorizing while asking each other’s opinions. Those moments of experimenting together are so special.

M: What is your go-to look for a Diwali party?

TM: My go-to look for a Diwali party is a comfortable sari, as I absolutely love saris. I would pair it with silver jewellery, a clean, sleek bun, and a bindi.

M: Is there a festive season fashion faux pas? If so, what would be your advice to avoid it?

TM: Footwear is where a lot of people go wrong. Festive gatherings involve a lot of dancing, standing, and walking, so it's important to wear something comfortable. Many go for the glitz and glamour options that aren’t the most comfortable, which can end up ruining the evening. Instead of walking around barefoot and complaining, choose footwear that’s comfortable because, ultimately, it’s the outfit that will do the talking. When you feel comfortable, you exude confidence and people should consider this.

M: What are some style tips that you’ve learned on the job that most people don’t know?

TM: I’m still quite new to the styling and fashion game, but I’ve learned that accessorising can be a game-changer. You don’t need a new wardrobe every time you go out. Just by accessorizing the same outfit in different ways, you can create entirely new looks. A saree can be draped in multiple styles, making it sustainable and considerate of both the environment and your budget. Investing in quality accessories and clothing is key as fast fashion doesn’t last and often doesn’t look great, so it’s not worth it.

M: What are you wearing this Diwali?

TM: I’m planning on a low-key Diwali with family this year, so I’ll be sticking with my go-to festive look—a sari paired with accessories.