Late last evening, fashion enthusiasts across the globe came alive as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made her much-awaited appearance at the ongoing Cannes Film Festival. Known for her hits and (many) misses on the red carpet over the years, this time—for her 22nd appearance—the former beauty queen made everyone turn their heads as she stepped out in an ivory sari.
Sharing details of the outfit on his Instagram, designer Manish Malhotra wrote: “At the 78th Cannes Film Festival (@festivaldecannes), the undisputed icon of the Cannes red carpet, the beautiful Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (@aishwaryaraibachchan_arb), makes a striking return in a visual statement that honours Indian handloom- a meditation in ivory, rose gold, and silver: a handwoven Kadwa ivory Banarasi handloom #mymmsaree. The Kadwa brocade technique stands as a true testament to the unmatched skill of Indian weavers. Originating from the famed looms of Varanasi, this intricate method involves crafting each motif separately, often using multiple shuttles and supplementary threads.”
The post added that the sari features handwoven brocade motifs and hand-embroidered zari detailing in genuine silver, further extending the “sanctity of the fabric.” “Draped alongside is a sheer white tissue handwoven dupatta, edged with real gold and silver zardozi embroidery. The ensemble marks a deliberate departure from conventional red carpet codes, reintroducing the saree not as nostalgia but as contemporary couture. A bold assertion from the brand, rewriting what Indian ceremonial dress can signify on the global stage.”
It was not just her outfit—even her jewels, which included over 500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds in 18k gold, also from the designer—that grabbed eyeballs. But the cherry on the cake was the sindoor and her bold red lips, which added a pop of colour to her otherwise monotone look.
Much like every year, the Internet came alive when she stepped out of her hotel, with netizens admiring her looks. “She is Gorgeous & finally wearing something that is matching her beauty,” wrote one, “After How many years she wore sari? Wondering why she stopped wearing them. It is working for her,” commented another, and one even lauding the designer for doing her “justice in this” outfit.
Sindoor on the Cannes Red Carpet
However, it was not just the Guru actor who embraced her roots and marital status. Earlier in the day, Aditi Rao Hydari, who recently tied the knot Siddharth, also opted for the six-yard and sindoor look at the festival.
Aditi Rao Hydari painted the French Riviera red in a silk sari. (Photo: PR handout)
For her second appearance, Aditi was draped in a striking red sari. “A bold yet timeless choice, the Sultanah sari is composed of a silk warp and weft, resulting in a smooth silk surface that is loved and recognised for its possibilities, sumptuous tactility, and outwardly lustre. Aditi’s look exemplifies the elegance and contemporary cultural narrative Raw Mango continues to champion,” the brand noted in a press release.
To accessorise her desi look, the Heeramandi star wore a statement choker and matching earrings, and completed it with a red bindi and sindoor. Hair tied in a bun added the perfect finishing touches.
