From inked stories to cultural revolutions, India’s tattoo scene is morphing into a global canvas, blending tradition with innovation as it redefines self-expression in 2025
The tattoo industry in India is undergoing a remarkable transformation, driven by shifting perceptions and a surge in demand, particularly among younger generations. While the precise market value remains elusive, global projections indicate that the tattoo market could surpass $3.93 billion by 2030, with India emerging as one of the fastest-growing regions in this space.
Today, they symbolise more than rebellion or personal identity; they serve as vessels for personal stories, cultural legacies and cutting-edge artistic innovation. As we look toward 2025, the tattoo landscape is poised to fuse tradition with experimentation, ushering in an era of exciting transformation.
Tattoos—a combination of art and pain, deeply embedded with meaning. But why do people endure the discomfort of the tattooing process? “The pain is certainly discomforting, but it’s that very sensation of earning the mark that drives people to seek more,” says Vikas Malani, a veteran celebrity tattoo artist and founder of BodyCanvas Tattoos. “The permanent ink is a commitment to memories, passions and beliefs. It’s a reminder that life is a journey, punctuated by meaningful milestones. The slight discomfort of the process becomes a symbol—reminding us that beauty often arises from challenge. It’s a test of courage and self-confidence.”
In recent years, the tattoo industry has experienced rapid growth, particularly in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Hyderabad. Vicky Rao, CEO of Naksh Tattoos in A.S Rao Nagar and other locations in Hyderabad, explains, “While some tattoo artists are embracing digital tools like iPads to create intricate designs, many still rely on pre-existing patterns from platforms like Pinterest. However, a growing group of artists is creating original, personalised tattoos by hand, demonstrating a significant shift toward custom designs. We already conducted a free workshop for awareness and are also planning a tattoo convention in Hyderabad soon to give people the opportunity to explore trends and the nuances of the tattoo industry.”
While minimalism once dominated, this trend has faded, with fewer clients opting for simple, understated designs. An emerging trend in the industry is the growing interest in hyper-realistic tattoos, which employ shading and negative space to create lifelike images. “These tattoos are often confused with 3D tattoos, but they actually use techniques like realism and hyper-realism to generate a three-dimensional effect on the skin. Artists use varying shades of dark ink and carefully applied color to create depth and dimension, pushing the boundaries of traditional tattoo artistry,” cautions Vicky.
In cities like Delhi and Bangalore, tattoo conventions have proven successful in raising awareness and promoting the art form. While Hyderabad has yet to host a similar event, there is hope that in the coming years, such conventions will help raise awareness and establish higher professional standards within the city.
Meanwhile, Trisha Ganguly, 32, a corporate worker in Gachibowli, found solace in Buddhism amidst the challenges of the pandemic. Recently, she adorned herself with a tattoo of the “lotus flower,” representing purity and enlightenment, as it emerges from muddy waters to bloom into a beautiful flower. She says, “I was never really into tattooing but recently I decided to give it a try. I honestly loved the experience right from sitting with the tattoo artist discuss the design to finally getting inked and feeling the meditative power.”
Amid the rise of minimalist and aesthetic tattoos, Sak Yant stands out for its spiritual and cultural depth. Award-winning tattoo artist Prashant Yaduvanshi, Founder of Shaman Ink, shares, “Originating in Thailand, these sacred designs are traditionally created by monks and imbued with protective blessings. Featuring intricate geometric patterns and ancient symbols, Sak Yant tattoos carry a profound sense of purpose.” As mindfulness and spirituality gain prominence, Sak Yant is resonating with a new generation of seekers.
In addition, the evolution of cover-up tattoos has marked a significant shift in tattoo artistry, moving away from the traditional, heavy-handed approach of concealing old designs with bold, dark patches.
Prashant Yaduvanshi has unlocked an innovative approach to tattooing over old designs without resorting to the typical cover-up methods. Rather than using dark patches to mask existing ink, he employs lighter hues, crafting new, seamless works of art that blend effortlessly with the skin. “The trust my clients place in me is something I hold with great responsibility. Their reactions to the transformed designs are the most rewarding part of my work. Many come to me feeling trapped by tattoos they no longer connect with, believing their only option is to live with them. But when they see their old tattoos reimagined into something fresh and beautiful, their joy and surprise are the greatest affirmations of my craft.”
Artists are increasingly embracing diversity and exploring new avenues. Take, for instance, Hyderabad-based freelance tattoo artist Alamdar Ajju, who is gaining recognition for his work in Dubai. Reflecting on emerging design trends, he says, “In 2025, Japanese-style tattoos are poised for a global renaissance, reflecting a growing fascination with their aesthetic depth, cultural resonance, and historical significance. Known for their intricate designs and profound symbolism, Japanese tattoos have evolved far beyond their traditional roots. The hallmark of Japanese tattoos—whether it’s the majestic dragon, the graceful koi fish, or the vibrant cherry blossoms—is their meticulous attention to detail and their ability to tell a story through imagery, often invoking themes of strength, perseverance, and spirituality.”
Tattoos, like many forms of self-expression, reflect the social class and cultural influences of the individuals who choose them. In Hyderabad, Bunty Bugs of Stud-in Tattoos, which operates in both Hyderabad and Vijayawada, comments, “For the masses, tattoos inspired by film stars have gained significant popularity, with tattoos from Prabhas’ movie Salaar showing a sharp rise. These tattoos symbolize fandom and personal connection to celebrity culture. Among the middle class, face tattoos are gaining traction, marking a shift towards bolder, more visible expressions of identity. Meanwhile, wealthier individuals tend to opt for tattoos that reflect their beliefs, such as religious or spiritual symbols, often featuring gods.”
In addition, young people, particularly women, are embracing more abstract or personal symbols like angel numbers, which are believed to carry meaningful guidance. This diverse range of tattoo choices underscores how body art continues to evolve, influenced by personal values, societal trends and the ongoing quest for self-expression.
