Why Aishwarya Rai's Lehenga from 'Jodhaa Akbar' reached the Oscars: The Surprising Reason

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu): It has been nearly 16 years since the release of Jodhaa Akbar, starring Aishwarya Rai and Hrithik Roshan. In the film, Aishwarya Rai donned several stunning lehengas, but one of these lehengas has now earned international recognition. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has selected this particular lehenga to display in its upcoming exhibition. The beauty of the garment has been praised, and it’s now becoming a symbol of India's heritage.

Aishwarya Rai, still renowned for her beauty, has added another achievement to her name. Released in 2008, Jodhaa Akbar featured Aishwarya wearing exquisite lehengas and jewelry, which were widely appreciated by fans. Many female fans even chose similar styles for their weddings, inspired by Aishwarya’s looks. Now, one of the lehengas worn by Aishwarya in the film is gaining international recognition. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has decided to display this wedding lehenga in its museum.

The wedding lehenga worn by Aishwarya Rai in Jodhaa Akbar was designed by the renowned designer Neeta Lulla. This masterpiece lehenga, which is now set to be seen by the entire world, will be part of an upcoming exhibition at the Oscar Museum. The lehenga Aishwarya wore features intricate zardozi work, a traditional embroidery technique that showcases ancient craftsmanship. Additionally, the heavy necklace she wore had a blue peacock design embellished with kundan work, making the design both magnificent and visually captivating. The Academy also shared a video of this lehenga being worn by a mannequin, with scenes from Jodhaa Akbar, including Aishwarya's marriage scene alongside Hrithik Roshan as Akbar.

In their video post, the Academy noted, “This lehenga is the perfect fit for a queen, designed specifically for the silver screen. The red wedding lehenga worn by Aishwarya Rai in Jodhaa Akbar (2008) is still beloved by audiences. Its beautiful zardozi embroidery showcases centuries-old artistry, and the jewelry exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship. If you look closely, you’ll see a peacock, India’s national bird, created entirely from diamonds and precious stones. Neeta Lulla has designed not just a costume but a representation of India’s heritage.”