Samriti Dhatwalia
At a time when the Cannes red carpet is overflowing with dramatic gowns, futuristic silhouettes, and viral fashion experiments, Alia Bhatt has gone back to a moment rooted deeply in Indian elegance. The actress recently revealed that her most iconic Cannes look of all time is none other than Aishwarya Rai’s unforgettable yellow saree appearance at the premiere of Devdas. And honestly, it is difficult to disagree.
The Saree That Changed India’s Cannes History
Long before social media turned Cannes into a global fashion spectacle, Aishwarya Rai arrived at the festival in a bright yellow saree designed by Neeta Lulla for the screening of Devdas in 2002. The look was paired with traditional jewellery, soft makeup, and unmistakable grace. At a time when international red carpets were dominated by Western couture, Aishwarya’s appearance felt revolutionary. She did not attempt to blend in with Hollywood glamour, she brought Indian glamour with her.
That moment became larger than fashion. It became a cultural memory.
Why Alia Bhatt’s Choice Feels Significant
For Alia Bhatt to pick that particular look as Cannes’ most iconic Indian fashion moment says a lot about how enduring Aishwarya’s legacy truly is. Alia herself has been making headlines for her Cannes appearances this year, from ivory saree-inspired couture to dreamy pastel gowns and experimental global fashion statements.
Yet despite the evolution of red carpet fashion, she chose a look built on simplicity, tradition, and emotional resonance. That says something important: true iconicity is not always about extravagance. Sometimes, it is about timing, identity, and confidence.
When Devdas Took Bollywood Global
The Cannes appearance also carried the weight of cinema history. Devdas was screened at the festival in 2002 and became one of the most internationally recognized Hindi films of its time. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Aishwarya Rai.
The film introduced global audiences to Bollywood’s maximalist beauty, and emotional storytelling. And standing at the centre of that cinematic grandeur was Aishwarya in yellow: elegant, regal, and instantly unforgettable.