When Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna shared their wedding photographs, most of us thought we knew what to expect. Another carefully curated celebrity reveal. Coordinated pastel outfits. Soft-focus portraits. Familiar poses against temple pillars or floral backdrops. A heartfelt caption about forever.
Rashmika Mandanna And Vijay Deverakonda Are Married
Instead, they took a delightfully unexpected turn. For the first time in ages, the groom stole the spotlight from the bride, and honestly, we’re loving this daring change.
At first glance, the wedding had all the makings of a classic South Indian celebration – traditional textiles, heirloom jewellery, and a setting that honoured heritage and ritual. But the longer you looked, the more it became clear that this was not just another celebrity wedding designed to trend for a weekend.
The Groom Who Broke The Mold
Known for challenging conventions both on and off screen, Vijay once again lived up to his reputation by rewriting the groom’s fashion rulebook in the most unexpected way – by wearing alta on his wedding day.
For decades, Indian grooms have largely adhered to a predictable aesthetic. Ivory sherwanis, muted gold embroidery, polished footwear, and an overall regal look. Bridal symbolism, particularly body adornment, has traditionally been reserved for women. Alta – the deep red dye painted onto hands and feet, has long been one of those distinctly feminine markers of celebration.
Vijay’s decision to incorporate alta into his wedding look subtly challenged traditional ideas of masculinity. By embracing an element historically associated with brides, he signalled that cultural symbols need not be confined by gender.
Alta And Its Deep Cultural Roots
Alta carries centuries of history in India, particularly in eastern regions such as West Bengal, Odisha, and parts of Bihar and Assam. Traditionally derived from lac dye, the vivid red liquid has long symbolized prosperity, fertility, and auspicious beginnings. Brides paint their palms and feet with it during wedding rituals, creating delicate curved patterns that complement silk saris and gold jewellery.
The colour red holds deep significance in Hindu weddings, representing strength, love, and new beginnings. Alta enhances that symbolism by highlighting the bride’s steps into married life. Beyond weddings, alta is also worn in classical dance performances like Odissi and Kathak, accentuating intricate hand and foot movements.
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Historically, alta has been closely associated with womanhood and sacred femininity. Its presence on a groom, therefore, challenges long-held visual codes.
A Wedding Wardrobe Rooted In Tradition
While the alta sparked conversation, Vijay’s overall wedding ensemble was equally thoughtful. Rather than opting for an overtly opulent look, he chose refined traditional silhouettes.
What Vijay Deverakonda Wore On His Wedding Day
For the occasion, the actor chose a classic ivory silk dhoti, paired with a rich red angavastram (shawl) draped elegantly over his shoulder. Both pieces featured detailed embroidery along the borders, inspired by traditional temple architecture and motifs.
Completing the regal look, Vijay opted for heritage temple-style gold jewellery. A layered necklace with intricate detailing took centre stage, paired with a shorter gold necklace and bold gold studs. Ornate gold kadas, gold armlets and a classic kamarbandh (waist belt) added the finishing touch, perfectly balancing tradition and elegance.
What Rashmika Mandanna Wore On Her Wedding Day
Rashmika Mandanna looked every bit a queen from a bygone era in a vibrant orange-and-gold Banarasi silk saree. The fabric shimmered with intricate gold brocade and traditional motifs, lending the ensemble a timeless, regal charm. She paired it with a matching orange blouse featuring a soft scoop neckline and half sleeves with subtle golden accents. The saree’s heavily embellished pallu was draped gracefully over her shoulder, while a delicate beige dupatta over her head added a ceremonial finish.
Her jewellery complemented the outfit beautifully. She wore layered temple-style gold necklaces – a bold choker, a long mango-motif chain, and a kasu mala with delicately embossed deity designs.
Gold jhumkas framed her face, while her arms were adorned with a mix of bangles, kadas, and intricately carved armlets. Antique-inspired baajubandhs completed the look, reflecting the essence of classic South Indian bridal elegance.
