Aishwarya Rai Stuns in Iconic Banarasi Saree
At Cannes, beauty meets heritage as couture and high jewellery steal center stage pure art!
Jehangir Irroni is a filmmaker and creative director with over 18 years of experience in directing ad films, corporate videos, web series, and television shows. As assistant vice president - Videos at IncNut Digital, Jehangir is involved in producing and directing videos and infomercials.
Read full bio of Jehangir Irroni
Image: Instagram
At the 78th Cannes Film Festival, the timeless beauty Aishwarya Rai Bachchan turned heads with a look that blended rich Indian tradition and couture craftsmanship. Wearing a meticulously handwoven Kadwa Banarasi handloom saree in a graceful shade of ivory, Aishwarya delivered a stunning visual narrative of art and heritage that resonated across the international stage.
A Celebration Of Heritage
The saree, a masterpiece threaded with brocade motifs and real chandi (silver) zari interlaced with hints of rose gold and silver, is more than a garment – it is a living ode to time-honoured traditions. The fabric speaks of deep-rooted artisanal skills, with every texture and detail meticulously curated to celebrate the beauty of Indian handloom craftsmanship. Complementing the saree was a tissue dupatta, bordered with gold and silver zardozi work, adding a further layer of opulence to the ensemble.
Exquisite Craftsmanship
No detail was spared in creating this look. Aishwarya accentuated her ensemble with an heirloom high jewellery set from Manish Malhotra Jewellery. This exclusive collection featured a symphony of over 500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds set in 18k gold, cascading necklaces that exuded a renaissance charm, and statement rings that elevated the entire look into a realm of regal finesse. Each piece of jewellery was a testament to the designer’s mastery in bridging traditional design with modern aesthetics.
The styling, credited to Allia and Nayaab, along with the expert make-up by Kavye Sharma and hair artistry from Stephane Lancien, ensured that every element of the look was in perfect harmony. Managed by Archsda, the presentation was refined and seamless, capturing both the spirit of the festival and the essence of Indian craftsmanship.
A Fusion Of Past And Present
Aishwarya’s appearance at Cannes was not just a fashion statement; it was a celebration of legacy and the continual evolution of Indian couture. The handwoven Kadwa saree, originating from the famed looms of Varanasi, carries with it the legacy of generations of skilled artisans who have passed down their craft through centuries. Its intricate brocade motifs and hand-embroidered zari detailing exemplify the valor and passion of these traditional weavers.
Renowned designer Manish Malhotra, whose name has become synonymous with high fashion and luxury within Bollywood and beyond, has long been a pioneer in reinventing traditional Indian attire for the global stage. His work has consistently set benchmarks in the couture world – from red carpet glamour to statement pieces at international festivals. The current ensemble is yet another feather in his cap, reinforcing why his creations continue to capture the imagination of celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike.
A Look That Speaks Volumes
Aishwarya’s stunning attire was more than just an ensemble; it was a carefully constructed narrative. Each layer of the look echoed a sense of ritual and reverence—a respectful nod to the artistry of Indian handloom and the modern luxury of high jewellery. The play of textures and metallic hues, from the soft ivory of the saree to the shimmer of silver and rose gold accents, created a visual rhythm that celebrated both tactility and timeless style.
Fashion critics and enthusiasts have praised the look for its seamless integration of traditional techniques with contemporary design elements. Multiple social media posts and fashion columns soon highlighted the ensemble as one of the festival’s most talked-about appearances. The elaborate detail in the craftsmanship not only paid homage to the emerging trends in couture but also served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of Indian cultural narratives on the global stage.
The evolution of high fashion, as demonstrated by this stunning appearance, reinforces the idea that modern aesthetics can work hand in hand with heritage. Fashion houses and designers continue to invest in skills and techniques that, while rooted in centuries-old traditions, are given a refreshing modern twist. Aishwarya’s look at Cannes, adorned with the magnificence of Manish Malhotra’s jewellery, perfectly captures this trend, highlighting the possibility of bridging art with opulence in the most refined manner.
Amid the glamour of the festival, this look provided a powerful reminder that true style lies in the details—the careful construction of every motif and the thoughtful interplay of colors and textures. As global audiences and critics continue to admire the intricacies of this ensemble, it becomes clear that such moments transcend mere fashion; they embody cultural pride and an enduring celebration of artistic excellence.
Read full bio of Jehangir Irroni
