In the vibrant tapestry of Indian fashion, sarees and lehengas have always held a special place, embodying elegance, tradition and cultural heritage. These timeless garments have seen a resurgence in recent years, owing largely to the influence of Bollywood. Through the silver screen, Bollywood has not only kept these traditional attires alive but has also redefined and revitalised them for contemporary fashion enthusiasts. This article explores how Bollywood is breathing new life into the saree and lehenga trend, taking it from reel to real.
The Bollywood Effect: A Historical Perspective
Bollywood has long been a trendsetter in Indian fashion. From the classic sarees worn by Meena Kumari in the 1950s to the modern-day lehengas donned by Deepika Padukone, Bollywood’s leading ladies have always influenced fashion trends. These films offer a glimpse into the sartorial elegance of sarees and lehengas, making them aspirational for millions of viewers.
Iconic Bollywood Saree Moments
Sridevi in Mr. India (1987): The iconic blue saree Sridevi wore in the song “Kaate Nahi Kat Te” remains etched in the minds of many. This saree symbolised sensuality and grace, making it a memorable Bollywood fashion moment.
Madhuri Dixit in Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994): Madhuri Dixit’s purple saree in the song “Didi Tera Devar Deewana” became a rage, influencing bridal fashion for years.
Deepika Padukone in Chennai Express (2013): Deepika’s traditional South Indian sarees in the film revived the interest in Kanjeevaram sarees, blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary appeal.
The Lehenga Revival: Bollywood’s Contemporary Take
Kajol in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995): Kajol’s green lehenga in the song “Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna” set the trend for bridal wear, making lehengas an essential part of Indian weddings.
Alia Bhatt in Raazi (2018): Alia Bhatt’s understated and elegant lehengas in the film showcased how simplicity could be strikingly beautiful and appealing to the modern bride.
Kriti Sanon in Panipat (2019): The film’s elaborate and historically inspired lehengas brought back the grandeur of Mughal-inspired designs, influencing contemporary bridal fashion.
Bollywood Designers: The Creative Geniuses
Designers like Manish Malhotra, Sabyasachi Mukherjee and Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla have played pivotal roles in this revival. Their creations, showcased in Bollywood films, have set new benchmarks for saree and lehenga designs. Manish Malhotra’s intricate embroidery, Sabyasachi’s regal aesthetics and Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla’s innovative silhouettes have all contributed to making these traditional garments relevant for today’s fashion-forward audience.
Celebrities Off-Screen: Setting Trends
Bollywood celebrities often choose sarees and lehengas for red carpet events, weddings and public appearances. This off-screen endorsement further cements their popularity. For instance, Priyanka Chopra’s choice of a red Sabyasachi lehenga for her wedding reception garnered worldwide attention, inspiring brides globally to embrace traditional Indian wear.
In the age of Instagram and Pinterest, Bollywood fashion moments are instantly shared and replicated. Influencers and fashion bloggers often recreate looks from popular films, making these traditional garments accessible and desirable for a younger, global audience.
The Timeless Appeal of Tradition
Bollywood’s influence on fashion is undeniable, and its role in reviving the saree and lehenga trend is a testament to its power. These garments, with their rich cultural heritage, have been seamlessly integrated into contemporary fashion, due to the magic of cinema. As Bollywood continues to evolve, so too will the trends it inspires, ensuring that the saree and lehenga remain timeless symbols of Indian elegance and tradition.
