Before gowns, nudity took over Cannes, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan lit up the Red Carpet in a golden saree

Before gowns, nudity took over Cannes, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan lit up the Red Carpet in a golden saree

In 2002, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made history — not just as a global celebrity attending the Cannes Film Festival, but as a proud Indian woman who chose to represent her culture in the most graceful way possible: by wearing a saree.

At a time when the Cannes red carpet was dominated by extravagant gowns and Western haute couture, Aishwarya walked in draped in a stunning mustard-yellow Neeta Lulla saree, instantly capturing global attention.

The saree, crafted in handloom organza with intricate gold buti work, was a true reflection of Indian craftsmanship. Styled with heavy gold jewellery, including a choker necklace and traditional earrings, and complemented by a bindi and her signature confident smile, Aishwarya looked like a vision of Indian royalty.

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Her appearance was for the premiere of Devdas, where she was joined by co-star Shah Rukh Khan and director Sanjay Leela Bhansali — a moment that was not just about cinema, but about culture and identity on a global stage.

What made this appearance truly special was the boldness of her choice. In an era where most international celebrities played it safe or tried to fit into Western fashion norms, Aishwarya broke the mould by proudly showcasing a traditional saree.

It wasn’t just fashion — it was a statement. She showed the world that the saree, with its six yards of grace, could hold its own among the most extravagant couture creations.

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This moment was not just about looking beautiful — it was about representation. Aishwarya Rai brought India’s heritage to the global spotlight, reminding millions of Indians and the diaspora across the world that tradition has a place in modernity. The look continues to be remembered and referenced even two decades later, proving its timeless impact.

That 2002 red carpet appearance didn’t just establish Aishwarya as a global icon — it redefined how Indian fashion could be perceived on international platforms. Her saree was more than fabric and thread; it was pride, identity, and a celebration of roots. In the years that followed, many celebrities took inspiration from her to represent Indian culture on global runways, but Aishwarya’s golden saree moment at Cannes will always remain unmatched.