To state that Indian films and India as a nation honour Indian traditions and customs unlike any other requires a sense of pride. They have also significantly impacted the realm of international fashion. The work of Indian designer Sabyasachi, who has helped to define Indian culture and fashion through Bollywood stars on a global scale, is a prime example of this. He is a renowned Indian designer whose creations have gained international recognition.
Numerous A-list Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities, including Kim Kardashian, Deepika Padukone, and Alia Bhatt, have attended international events dressed in Sabyasachi attire. Speaking especially of B-town, the gorgeous soon-to-be mother Deepika Padukone attended the BAFTA Film Awards in 2024 wearing a Sabyasachi saree.
She sent a message that represented Indian culture globally and embraced the soul of India. She supported an Indian designer by donning a timeless gold saree adorned in sequins and a sleeveless top that complemented the ensemble’s traditional and contemporary elements.
A week before Deepika Padukone’s widely shared red carpet ensemble from a global event, Alia Bhatt used a Sabyasachi Mukherjee creation to promote her web series Poacher in London. Grandma’s pearls and the black velvet saree depicted an era of grace. Velvet, which is often associated with refinement, is more prevalent in Indian fashion than it is outside of the country.
I can’t help but be transported back in time by Alia Bhatt’s appearance, which reminds me of Vidya Balan’s 2013 jury appearance on the Cannes red carpet. She donned a quilted Chanel purse, large Chanel sunglasses, and a patterned Sabyasachi chiffon saree, all accessorised with pearl necklaces.
She appeared at Cannes like a Golconda princess, a made-up figure designed by the designer, who was, of course, none other than Sabyasachi Mukherjee, the stylist.
Aditi Rao Hydari, the personification of royal grace, is the next. She furthered Indian tradition and simplicity by attending the Cannes Film Festival in 2022 dressed in an ivory organza saree. She accessorised it with a plunging neckline and full-sleeve blouse. Celebrities have transformed the saree into more than just an occasion garment in the past and present.
The iconic partnership between Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Sabyasachi is hard to overlook. Aishwarya has proven time and time again that it is possible to look unique even among the stunning gowns designed by international designers when walking the annual red carpet at Cannes. A striking black-and-gold velvet Sabyasachi sari is one of several.
At least once, every reigning Bollywood queen wore a saree to Cannes, supporting Sabyasachi Mukherjee in the process. In my opinion, Sabya strikes the ideal blend between Indian tradition and a poetic undertone for Bollywood. Every piece he makes, from velvet to organzas to chiffons with fanciful designs, reflects his exceptional taste.
Most significant, though, is that it takes a lot to represent Indian culture and stay true to one’s roots in a world where fashion and trends are always changing.
Staying current in the ever-changing fashion industry requires more than just making gorgeous clothing.