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Bahrain-based talent Deepika Ramsunkar has become the kingdom’s first nail artist to secure a spot on international pop sensation Tyla’s glam squad.
The part-time nail technician and law student designed a press-on set for the singer and songwriter, ahead of her debut show on the island this month, held at Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre in Sakhir.
The detailing was inspired by the Grammy-winner’s musical hits – seashells as a nod to her massively successful 2023 single Water, the iconic Chanel logo for her latest namesake chart-topper this year, and a Tyla Tyger-inspired pattern as a tribute to her fan base, among others.
“When I learned that Tyla was visiting, I got in touch with the amphitheatre proposing a collaboration,” the 20-year-old who attends Applied Science University told GulfWeekly.
“They forwarded my email to her team, and two days before she could arrive, I found out that it had been accepted,” she added.
The Johannesburg pop star visited the kingdom as part of her We Wanna Party Tour. Infused with her vibrant personality, her songs deliver an innovative blend of pop and R&B, while capturing the euphoria of South African amapiano.
Tyla’s songs often feature distinct nail styles that match her music’s vibe.
Water was the first track by a South African soloist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years and even won the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in 2024 – making Tyla the youngest African artist to bag the honour.
Other accolades include two MTV Video Music Awards, two BET Awards, and several additional nominations.
As a devoted fan, Deepika was thrilled to be on the artist’s glam team, adding to her repertoire as a professional part-time nail technician.
“I work for Sephora and have my own clients from Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, but this was the first time I was part of a celebrity glam team,” said Deepika, who moved to Bahrain about a year ago.
“They were so welcoming and friendly. Tyla was so sweet; I was going in for a professional handshake, but she hugged me!”
Before arriving in Bahrain, Deepika lived in Saudi Arabia and continues to visit her family, who still reside there.
Talking about her journey as a nail artist, she said: “I used to be a huge nail biter when I was younger, which led me to discover press-on nails. At 15, I moved to England for my studies and the fascination kept growing. Eventually, my peers at boarding school noticed my talent, and I started doing designs for them.”
Deepika specialises in acrylics, GelX and BIAB (builder in a bottle), among other styles.
“I love colours and anything 3D or illustrated – that’s my signature. I am also hoping to get people on the long nail trend,” she added.
