Rashmika Mandanna on Dhanteras: “Jewellery Is a Keepsake, Holds Emotional Value”

Bollywood and pan-India star Rashmika Mandanna marked this year’s Dhanteras with reflections that go beyond glitz and glam — emphasising how jewellery for her isn’t just adornment, but a bridge to memories and meaning.

In a candid conversation, she opened up about her emotional connection to gold and how the symbol of jewellery goes deeper than just aesthetics. She explained that in her life, jewellery carries “timeless beauty and meaning,” adding that pieces borrowed from her mother on special occasions help preserve tradition and anchor her to her roots.

She further reflected on the festival’s spirit: Dhanteras, she said, is “all about new beginnings” — a time to embrace change, opportunity and togetherness, especially when work keeps her away from family. For her, the tradition of buying or wearing gold or jewellery during Dhanteras isn’t merely a ritual, but a way to crystallise those sentiments.

Her remarks subtly challenge the notion that celebrity jewellery is only about luxury and show-off. Instead, Rashmika frames jewellery as keepsakes — items that hold emotional value, family history and personal evolution. Borrowing precious pieces from her mother, she says, adds a “nice touch of tradition.”

Why this matters:

• It gives fans a more relatable side of Rashmika — the idea that even for a high-flying star, jewellery can be about memory, legacy and connection, not just display.

• In an age where celebrity endorsements of jewellery brands are often critiqued as shallow marketing, Rashmika’s emphasis on emotional value brings authenticity to her endorsement of jewellery/festive campaigns.

• The message resonates with many who view jewellery as an investment and an heirloom: something to pass on, wear on special occasions, tethered to family and sentiment.

Contours of controversy (or at least deeper discussion):

• While she claims to “borrow” jewellery from her mother and values tradition, she is also a brand ambassador for luxury and jewellery brands. Some may see a tension between personal modesty and commercial image.

• The idea of jewellery as “keepsake” is certainly meaningful, but it may also underscore class divides: not everyone can treat jewellery as sentimental heirloom when for many it’s simply out of reach.

• Her statement may subtly shift the focus from buying new pieces (which the jewellery industry heavily promotes during Dhanteras/Diwali) to appreciating existing ones — a hint towards mindful consumption, which clashes with the fast-fashion/fast-buy culture.

Looking ahead: For followers of Rashmika’s career, these reflections might also hint at her evolving image — moving from the “cute crush” to someone more grounded, legacy-conscious and reflective. It positions her not just as a style icon, but someone valuing roots and memories.