The Black Rapunzel
The struggles of natural hair can seem unbearable to some, but for Asha Zulu Mandela, Ripley’s Believe it or Not and Guinness World record holder for “World’s Longest Locks” —measuring 55 ft long and weighing 25-30 lb when dry, and 50 lb when wet— it’s nothing short of a blessing. Over 30 years ago the Trinidadian native decided to grow dreadlocks , despite her mother’s disapproval. After moving to the United States she settled in Brooklyn and worked as a nanny where she realised that processed hair no longer fit her new lifestyle. She ditched the relaxer, went natural and never looked back. Under the Dryer sat with the hair phenomenon Mandela to find out what it is really like having 55 ft-long dreads.
What has been the biggest struggle with having 55ft-long dreads?
Certain things I wanted to do with my son (when he was young), like play on the playground, would be a bit much, but now it would be going to the beach. I can’t go in the water because once it gets wet it is very heavy. In terms of everyday life struggles, it’s actually easier than people think it is.
Is there a day or even a moment when you just “can’t handle” them?
No, there isn’t. Even when I feel the thought coming on, I (know) I made a commitment. I had no idea what the journey would hold for me, but whatever it was I was prepared to deal with it. I couldn’t imagine my life without my dreads.
What is the hair-washing process like?
I miss being able to just walk into the shower and just wash my hair. I wash the top once a day or every other day. Once a week my husband is wonderful and helps me hand-wash my hair. It takes 45 minutes. We live in Florida where thankfully the weather is good, so after washing my dreads I simply lie out on the patio on a sheet for them to dry.
How do you normally style your hair?
I don’t really do any styling. The first time I styled in the 30 years that I have had (my dreads) was about five years ago for a big photo shoot that ran for 24 hours. They tried to get as many pictures as possible because I’m not so much into styling. (Normally)I just pull it back, groom, and go.
How does your mom feel about your dreads now?
My mom absolutely loves my dreads now, she is in fact very overprotective of them. It took her about five years.You know Caribbean parents not into this (dreads). I started when she said, “I groomed your hair so nicely for you to turn it into a mop.” Now she is amazed and ever so proud.
