When Aishwarya Rai Bachchan walks the Cannes red carpet, it's never just another fashion moment; it's a reminder of the aura she holds. On May 21, the global superstar turned heads once again at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, making a grand appearance in an ethereal ivory Banarasi saree by Manish Malhotra. But even as the cameras flashed and the world admired her latest look, longtime fans couldn't help but be transported back to her unforgettable debut over two decades ago.
'She's back in a saree!'
The moment Aishwarya stepped out in her latest ivory drape, social media lit up with nostalgic comparisons to her 2002 Cannes debut. "She's back in a saree!" one fan wrote, while another declared, "The Queen has returned!" Her latest appearance has sparked instant flashbacks to the golden saree she wore for the 'Devdas' premiere, a look that remains one of her Cannes' most iconic red carpet moments.
Throwback to 2002: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's Cannes debut in gold saree
In 2002, Aishwarya made history as one of the first mainstream Bollywood stars to walk the Cannes red carpet. Attending with 'Devdas' co-stars Shah Rukh Khan and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, she chose a shimmering gold saree by Neeta Lulla.
The look was accessorised with a bold gold necklace, matching earrings, and traditional bangles. Her makeup was minimal and luminous, with side-swept hair that added to her timeless charm.
Cannes 2025: Aishwarya's Sindoor look in ivory Banarasi saree
Fast-forward to 2025, Aishwarya once again embraced tradition with a twist. This time, she donned an exquisite six-yard by renowned couturier Manish Malhotra featuring a stunning blend of ivory, rose gold, and silver. Handwoven with real chaandi (silver) zari and paired with a sheer tissue dupatta featuring zardozi embroidery, the ensemble flowed effortlessly on the red carpet.
But what truly elevated her look was the opulence of her jewellery. From Manish Malhotra's heirloom collection, Aishwarya wore a breathtaking necklace featuring over 500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds, set in 18-carat gold. The layered neckpiece was complemented by ruby-and-diamond earrings and statement rings adorning both hands.
Her beauty glam was equally stunning with winged eyeliner, a hint of sindoor, glowing blush, and red lips, with sleek centre-parted hair completing the regal look.
