Rashmika Mandanna: ‘The sweet smiles and the happy tears – those are what make a wedding perfect’

Newly-weds Rashmika Mandanna and Vijay Devarakonda took the internet with storm with their fresh look for their wedding. Every look was intentional, a representation of their roots, and designed to showcase their heritage to the world of eyes watching. Mandanna, who was applauded for her traditional look, a refreshing change from the ostentatiousness of several of her predecessors, answered what her aim was while becoming a bride, “A perfect celebration doesn’t need to be extravagant. It’s about taking in that moment and being surrounded by those who genuinely wish them well. The sweet smiles and the happy tears – those are what make a wedding perfect.”

The wedding season in India is as much about emotion as it is about grandeur if you listen to her. Said Mandanna, “For me, the wedding season is really about that beautiful mix of chaos, laughter, and love. I love how every family comes alive during this time. There’s music, colour, and so many small, heartfelt moments that become lifelong memories. It reminds me a lot of what Dear Diary stands for: connection, nostalgia, and celebrating the emotions that make us human.” Dear Diary is Mandanna’s latest venture, one she holds close to heart, a new age perfume collection that draws from emotions and memories, rather than market trends.

Mandanna is all caught up in emotions as she mentions, “There’s something so timeless and grounding about every moment, honestly – the colours, the joy and the sense of beginning a new chapter. It’s deeply emotional, and it captures the spirit of what love really is: respect and companionship.”

She mentions how she dreamt of her wedding celebration, “I’ve never been someone who plans too far ahead, but I imagined my dream celebration to be intimate, maybe somewhere surrounded by nature and/or a place that feels close to home. The mood had to be simple and meaningful, just loads of love, laughter, and good energy.” She goes on to speak about her wedding look, “I’ve always been drawn to pieces that feel timeless and meaningful, something that tells a story. Kanjeevarams remind me of my roots, while contemporary couture feels like self-expression. I tried to find a middle ground, a look that felt both nostalgic and new.”

Their wedding was applauded not just for their looks but how refreshingly intimate and personal it felt. Says Mandanna, “I think today’s couples are rewriting what weddings can look like by keeping traditions that feel personal while expressing who they are in fresh, creative ways. Whether that’s through their outfits, music, or even rituals, there’s a beautiful blend of roots and freedom. It’s very similar to how I see Dear Diary- proudly Indian, but with a global spirit.”

As a style icon for the modern youth she feels she’s somewhere between being a traditionalist and loving a modern twist?

“I think I’m a mix of both. I love traditional silhouettes, but I also enjoy giving them a modern edge — whether that’s a playful drape, an unexpected fabric, or a fun accessory. For me, festive dressing is about feeling happy, confident, and true to yourself- that’s when you glow the most.”

Her effortless go-to looks is a soft silk saree or an elegant co-ord set, minimal jewellery, fresh skin, and a Dear Diary fragrance. “I like keeping it simple but expressive, just like my fragrances. My go-to look is always about balance: subtle yet full of emotion.”

While not naming any particular designers and their work, she says, “I love designers who bring storytelling and their personality into their work. Indian designer are known for their elegance, sculptural drama, and the poetry in craftsmanship. Each one brings such depth and emotion to their creations, and that really inspires me. This also makes one resonate with the outfits more.”

For the long hours of celebration or events, she makes sure her outfits are comfortable. “I tend to choose fabrics that breathe, fits that move with me, and accessories that don’t weigh me down. True glamour, to me, is when you’re at ease in your own skin. It’s all about how you feel in the outfit. If you’re not comfortable, it shows.”

She has no specific beauty ritual before a big festive appearance, “I keep my routine very simple: clean skin, hydration, and good sleep (when possible!). I never skip fragrance, though. For me, it’s like an invisible accessory, the finishing touch that ties everything together and instantly lifts my mood. After all, scent as an emotion, that’s what Dear Diary is about!

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