The Cannes Film Festival has once again become the center of global fashion conversations in 2026, with Bollywood celebrities making powerful style statements on the international stage. Among the stars attracting major attention this year is Alia Bhatt, whose glamorous red-carpet appearances have turned heads across social media and fashion platforms. From luxurious couture gowns to elegant Indian-inspired outfits, the actress has delivered one memorable appearance after another at Cannes this year.
However, despite creating her own impressive fashion moments, Alia recently revealed that the Cannes appearance that remains unforgettable for her belongs to none other than Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. According to the actress, Aishwarya’s appearance at the premiere of Devdas in 2002 remains one of the most iconic red-carpet moments ever seen at Cannes.
The Devdas premiere at Cannes in 2002 is still remembered as a landmark event for Indian cinema. It was one of the first occasions when Bollywood received major international attention at the prestigious film festival. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan represented Indian beauty and tradition on the global stage while wearing a stunning saree that instantly became part of fashion history.
During a recent conversation with Vogue, Alia Bhatt was asked about the Cannes look that had stayed in her memory over the years. Without hesitation, she named Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s unforgettable Devdas premiere appearance. Alia explained that the elegant saree, combined with Aishwarya’s timeless beauty and grace, created a truly legendary fashion moment that still stands out decades later.
She described the appearance as absolutely iconic and praised the simplicity and elegance of the traditional Indian outfit. For many Bollywood fans and fashion lovers, Aishwarya’s Cannes appearance represented more than just style. It became a symbol of Indian culture and luxury fashion receiving worldwide recognition.
Interestingly, Alia Bhatt herself has become one of the strongest fashion representatives from Bollywood at Cannes 2026. Every appearance by the actress has sparked discussions online, with fans and fashion critics closely following her wardrobe choices. Her Cannes journey this year included a dramatic custom-designed ball gown by Yash Patil, a soft blush-toned outfit by Tamara Ralph, a modern saree gown by Tarun Tahiliani, and an icy blue ensemble created by Daniel Frankel.
Each outfit reflected a mix of international luxury fashion and Indian elegance, helping Alia establish her own identity on the Cannes red carpet. Fashion experts have praised her ability to combine glamour with sophistication while maintaining a fresh and youthful image. Social media platforms have also seen massive engagement around her looks, proving her growing influence in the luxury fashion industry.
Apart from acting success, Bollywood celebrities today are also becoming major names in global fashion and luxury branding. Stars like Alia Bhatt and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan represent premium beauty brands, luxury designers, and high-value endorsement campaigns worth millions. Their international appearances contribute not only to fashion trends but also to the business side of entertainment and celebrity branding.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, often called one of the most beautiful women in the world, has maintained a strong relationship with Cannes for over two decades. Her appearances have consistently generated headlines, making her one of India’s most recognized global celebrities. From traditional sarees to high-fashion gowns, her Cannes journey has influenced generations of Bollywood actresses.
Alia Bhatt’s admiration for Aishwarya’s Devdas look also highlights the emotional connection Bollywood stars have with iconic fashion moments from the past. While modern Cannes fashion often focuses on experimental designs and global luxury brands, traditional Indian outfits continue to leave a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
The 2002 Devdas premiere itself remains historic because it introduced Indian cinematic grandeur to international audiences. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film became known for its lavish sets, luxurious costumes, and unforgettable performances. The Cannes screening of the film elevated Bollywood’s presence globally and helped create a strong connection between Indian cinema and international film festivals.
Over the years, Cannes has evolved into a major platform for Bollywood celebrities to showcase not only films but also fashion, luxury lifestyle, and celebrity influence. Today, red-carpet appearances often generate as much attention as film premieres themselves. In this competitive fashion environment, being remembered decades later is considered a rare achievement, which explains why Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Devdas saree moment continues to hold legendary status.
Fans online have also reacted positively to Alia Bhatt’s statement, with many agreeing that Aishwarya’s appearance remains unmatched in Cannes history. Social media users praised the timeless beauty of the saree look and appreciated Alia for acknowledging such an iconic Bollywood fashion memory.
As Cannes 2026 continues to deliver glamorous celebrity appearances, Alia Bhatt’s tribute to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has reminded audiences that some fashion moments never fade with time. While trends continue to change, elegance, confidence, and cultural representation remain timeless qualities that define truly iconic red-carpet appearances.
