Rashmika Mandanna weds Vijay Deverakonda: How Rashmika aced the 'Poola Jada' on her big day

For years, the ultimate bridal hair directive was a messy, textured bun practically swallowed by pastel peonies and baby’s breath. It was the reigning champion of wedding mood boards and the default choice for nearly every celebrity bride. But the newly released wedding pictures of Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Deverakonda have just offered a structurally imposing, deeply rooted alternative. By stepping out in a full, traditional South Indian braid, Rashmika has essentially signaled the end of the Bollywood-style floral updo.

When you look at the wide shots of the couple walking side-by-side, Rashmika’s hair commands the frame. Instead of a slicked-back bun, her hair is styled in a classic poola jada - a Telugu and broader South Indian bridal staple that has been waiting for a mainstream revival.

The long, thick braid is methodically adorned with traditional gold hair accessories, known as jadabillas or choti ornaments, and framed by a trailing cascade of fresh jasmine and greenery. There is a regal, architectural elegance to it that a messy bun simply cannot replicate, especially when paired with heavy Kanjeevaram silks and antique temple jewelry. Furthermore, it brings a sensory element back to bridal fashion; the iconic, heady scent of fresh jasmine is a hallmark of traditional South Indian weddings that a generic pastel rose fails to deliver.

Getting this specific aesthetic right is an exercise in structure and weight distribution. Hairstylists typically start with a neat, center-parted front to accommodate the heavy gold matha patti resting along the hairline. Hair extensions are almost always incorporated to achieve the essential length and density.

The real technical work, however, happens in the detailing. To prevent the heavy gold motifs from dragging the hair down, stylists don't just pin them on top. The jadabillas are firmly anchored and woven directly into the foundation of the braid, distributing the weight of the metal evenly down the back. The fresh gajra is then tied intricately to frame these gold accents, creating a sharp visual contrast between the bright white jasmine, the rich gold, and the dark hair.

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If you want to swap the pastel roses for this authentic heritage aesthetic, the bridal market is entirely prepared for the shift. Here is exactly what it costs to put this look together for the upcoming wedding season:

● The 22-Karat Heirloom Route: Investing in a real gold jadabilla set is a major commitment. Depending on the overall weight and the intricacy of the temple carvings, these generational pieces typically run from ₹2,00,000 to ₹5,50,000.

● The Premium Silver Alternative: For a smarter, budget-friendly approach, high-quality silver with thick antique gold polish looks identical on camera and holds its structure beautifully. You can source intricately handcrafted sets from local heritage jewelers for a much more accessible ₹15,000 to ₹45,000.

● The Fresh Floral Element: The actual floral netting (the poola jada base) made of jasmine, rose petals, and sometimes gold tissue fabric is custom-ordered from specialized wedding florists. These fresh arrangements usually cost around ₹3,000 to ₹8,000 depending on the complexity of the weave.

The pastel floral bun will always have its place, but the sheer cultural weight and visual drama of a traditional poola jada are currently unmatched. It might finally be time to let your hair down for the big day.