The rakdi, the round ornament worn at the parting of the hair, is one of the most recognisable pieces of Rajasthani bridal jewellery. Worn with a borla-style setting at the hairline, it frames the face and catches the light in every photograph. Here is how to choose the right one.
What is a rakdi?
A rakdi is a dome-shaped head ornament, traditionally worn by married women in Rajasthan and by brides on their wedding day. Classic rakdis are covered in kundan or jadau work, often with a border of pearls or a hanging bunch of moti.
Pick the size for your face
- Small and round faces: a smaller, neat rakdi keeps the look balanced.
- Long or oval faces: a larger dome or one with a pearl fringe adds width.
- Heart-shaped faces: a medium rakdi with soft moti work softens a broad forehead.
Match it to your hairstyle
A rakdi sits best with a centre parting and a low bun or braid. If you plan a puffed or side-swept style, ask your hair stylist to leave a clear parting at the front so the rakdi sits straight. Pin it at two points, one at the front and one behind, so it stays secure through the pheras.
Coordinate with your bridal set
Choose a rakdi in the same work as your necklace: kundan with kundan, jadau with jadau. A classic pairing is our Kundan Rakdi with the Kundan Set with Earrings. If you love pearls, the Kundan Rakdi with Moti Piroi, a moti-strand necklace with a rakdi-inspired kundan pendant, echoes the rakdi beautifully.
Finish with statement earrings
With the parting framed by a rakdi, long earrings balance the look. Our Jumar Jela chandelier jhumkas combine a kundan drop, a chandbali crescent and a jhumka bell in the same ruby-red and kundan palette as the rakdi.
Browse all rakdi and head jewellery, or send us a photo of your outfit on WhatsApp and we will suggest a match.
