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Aishwarya Rai’s regal Cannes 2025 look featured 500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds, making a bold statement in heirloom high jewellery.
The queen of Cannes returned in style. On May 21, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan graced the red carpet at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, redefining red carpet fashion with a look steeped in Indian heritage and couture craftsmanship. Draped in an exquisite ivory Banarasi sari by Manish Malhotra, she brought with her not just glamour—but a celebration of India’s rich textile and jewellery legacy.
A Masterpiece in Weave and Embellishment
Far from the typical Cannes gowns, Aishwarya’s choice was a powerful cultural statement. The sari, handwoven in the age-old Kadwa brocade technique from the looms of Varanasi, featured intricate motifs embroidered separately with real silver threads—an art form that demands patience and precision. Delicate zari work shimmered across the fabric, while a sheer white tissue dupatta, handwoven and finished with gold and silver zardozi embroidery, added ethereal movement. Draped asymmetrically across her shoulders, it transformed into a dramatic, floor-grazing train—a striking fusion of tradition and theatrical flair.
Designer Manish Malhotra described the look as “a bold assertion” and a reimagining of the saree as contemporary couture rather than a nostalgic relic. “It reintroduces Indian ceremonial dress to the global stage in a language that’s both rooted and forward-looking,” he shared.
500 Carats of Pure Majesty
While the ensemble turned heads, it was Aishwarya’s jaw-dropping jewellery that truly stole the spotlight. From Manish Malhotra’s High Jewellery collection, her pieces featured over 500 carats of Mozambique rubies and uncut diamonds set in 18-carat gold—a tribute to old-world opulence.
She wore a stunning multi-strand ruby necklace layered with a diamond pendant choker and an additional statement diamond neckpiece. Her earrings echoed the theme, while ruby and diamond rings adorned both hands. Together, the pieces radiated vintage grandeur with a timeless, heirloom quality.
A Beauty Look That Spoke Volumes
Aishwarya’s beauty choices further accentuated the regal ensemble. Her hair was parted at the centre and left flowing, with a subtle line of sindoor paying homage to her roots. Her makeup combined classic and cinematic: bold winged liner, mascara-laced lashes, flushed cheeks, luminous highlighter, rich red lips, and defined brows completed the look.
In an era where fashion often chases trends, Aishwarya Rai’s appearance at Cannes 2025 was a powerful reminder that elegance, heritage, and modernity can co-exist—and captivate.
