Saree, a timeless Indian attire, has not only conquered hearts on home turf but has also made a significant mark on international platforms, courtesy of Bollywood's leading ladies. From red carpets to prestigious events, these actresses have effortlessly showcased the elegance and grace of the saree while representing India on the global stage. Let's delve into how Aishwarya Rai, Sonam Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut, Deepika Padukone, Preity Zinta, Priyanka Chopra, and Alia Bhatt mesmerized audiences with their impeccable saree ensembles.
Cannes veteran Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has graced the film festival in breathtaking sarees on numerous occasions. Among her notable appearances, two stand out. In 2002, marking her Cannes debut for the premiere of 'Devdas,' she exuded traditional Indian charm in a stunning gold saree by Neeta Lulla. Her second memorable saree moment occurred in 2010, where she dazzled the red carpet in a sheer, shimmering masterpiece by Sabyasachi, accompanied by her husband Abhishek Bachchan, creating an unforgettable sight.
Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, a Cannes regular, has captivated audiences on the red carpet with her diverse looks. Among her standout moments were when she embraced the elegance of the saree. In 2013, she exuded desi charm in a white lace saree by Anamika Khanna, adorned with a heavily embellished jacket and her signature pearl nath. A year later, she collaborated with the designer once again, gracing the carpet in a pale pink net saree, accessorized with her mother Sunita Kapoor’s statement neckpiece, leaving a lasting impression with her timeless style.
Renowned for her love of sarees, Kangana Ranaut showcased her desi roots at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival. She adorned a traditional gold Kanjivaram saree paired with a custom-made corset by Falguni Shane Peacock, accentuated with purple gloves on her arms. This fusion ensemble created ripples in the fashion world, epitomizing Kangana's distinctive style.
Just before revealing her pregnancy, Deepika Padukone stunned at the 77th BAFTA Film Awards with a champagne-gold Sabyasachi saree embellished with sequins. Another memorable saree moment was at Cannes 2022, where she served as a jury member, donning a retro black and gold shimmery Sabyasachi saree. Completing the look with dramatic eye makeup and a bun hairstyle, Deepika left a lasting impression on the red carpet.
After a 17-year hiatus, Bollywood darling Preity Zinta made a triumphant return to the Cannes Film Festival, captivating audiences with her stunning appearance. Dressed in an ombre pink saree designed by Seema Gujral, embellished with pearls, sequins, and beads, Preity left fans in awe as she graced the red carpet. She complemented the ensemble with dangling earrings, soft glam makeup, and her hair styled down, completing the glamorous look.
In 2019, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, a global icon, received recognition for her illustrious two-decade acting career at the Marrakech International Film Festival. For the event, the OG desi girl chose an elegant ivory saree by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, adorned with intricate mukaish work. She paired it with a chic strapless corset blouse, accessorized with a statement diamond necklace, and styled her hair in a relaxed bun.
At her second appearance on the Met Gala red carpet, Alia Bhatt embraced the 2024 theme, 'Garden Of Time,' donning a stunning floral saree crafted by renowned designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. The custom-made couture saree was exquisite, adorned with fringes, semi-precious stones, and beads. Her blouse was equally ornate, embellished with emeralds, pearls, and sapphires, adding to the overall enchanting look.