Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s Traditional Look at Cannes 2025: Stunning Statement or Outdated Style?

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The Cannes Film Festival has long been a stage for global fashion, where celebrities from around the world showcase their most daring, glamorous, and sometimes controversial looks. Among the regulars whose presence is eagerly anticipated each year is Bollywood’s own Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. Known for her elegance and charm, Aishwarya has often turned heads at Cannes with her sartorial choices. But this year, at Cannes 2025, she made headlines for a different reason—her bold embrace of tradition with sindoor and a mangalsutra, setting social media abuzz with both praise and criticism.

A Red Carpet Entrance Like No Other

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has always been a showstopper at Cannes, but her 2025 appearance was particularly memorable. Eschewing the usual Western gowns and high-fashion couture, she graced the red carpet in a heavily embroidered saree, complete with traditional jewelry, sindoor (vermilion) on her forehead, and a mangalsutra—a sacred necklace symbolizing marriage in Hindu culture. Her look was a celebration of Indian heritage, standing out amid the sea of contemporary couture.

The choice was both striking and unexpected. While some lauded her for representing Indian culture on an international platform, others were less impressed, launching a wave of heated debates online.

Social Media: A Divided House

As soon as videos and photos of Aishwarya’s appearance surfaced online, social media platforms exploded with reactions. Some fans were quick to call her a “timeless beauty,” praising her for staying true to her roots and bringing Indian traditions to the global stage. They admired her confidence and the pride she took in showcasing her culture, especially at an event where Western fashion dominates.

But not everyone was pleased. A significant section of netizens criticized her look as “boring” and “outdated.” Comments ranged from “this style is exhausted and repetitive” to harsher jibes like “she looks old, it’s time to retire,” and “every year, the same formula—why not try something new?” Some questioned whether her appearance was more suited for a religious festival like Karva Chauth than a high-profile fashion event like Cannes.

The Debate: Tradition vs. Innovation

The mixed reactions have reignited an age-old debate—should celebrities stick to their signature styles, or reinvent themselves with every appearance? For many, Aishwarya’s look was a breath of fresh air, a reminder of the richness of Indian tradition. For others, it was a missed opportunity to experiment and evolve.

Fashion critics weighed in, with some suggesting that while it’s important to honor one’s heritage, the red carpet is also a space for innovation. “Aishwarya has always been a style icon, but repeating similar traditional looks year after year can make even the most graceful actress seem stagnant,” commented a well-known Mumbai-based stylist. “Cannes is about making a statement, and sometimes, that means taking risks.”

The Trolls and the Supporters

Trolling, unfortunately, is an inevitable part of celebrity life. This year, Aishwarya faced a barrage of negative comments targeting not just her outfit, but also her age and perceived reluctance to try new styles. Some even accused her of using the sindoor and mangalsutra as a publicity stunt, questioning the authenticity of her traditional display.

Yet, her loyal fans stood firmly by her side. Many pointed out that Aishwarya was representing Indian women and culture on one of the world’s biggest stages, and that her choice deserved respect, not ridicule. “She’s not just dressing for herself, but for millions of women who see themselves in her,” wrote one supporter. Others argued that the criticism was rooted in ageism and unrealistic expectations of constant reinvention.

Aishwarya’s Message: Pride in Heritage

While Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has not directly responded to the controversy, her red carpet appearance spoke volumes. In an industry where trends change overnight and pressure to conform is immense, her decision to wear sindoor and a mangalsutra was a powerful statement of identity and pride.

Sources close to the actress suggest that she wanted to showcase the beauty of Indian culture at a global event, reminding the world that tradition can be just as glamorous as modernity. Her look was not just about fashion, but about sending a message—that it’s okay to honor your roots, even in the most cosmopolitan settings.

The Power of Representation

Aishwarya’s Cannes 2025 appearance has sparked important conversations about representation, identity, and the role of tradition in modern fashion. In a world where celebrities are often expected to set trends and break boundaries, her choice to embrace her heritage was both bold and refreshing.

Whether you loved her look or found it uninspired, there’s no denying that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made an impact. She reminded us that fashion is not just about clothes—it’s about storytelling, culture, and the courage to be yourself.

As the dust settles on another Cannes Film Festival, one thing is clear: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continues to captivate audiences, not just with her beauty, but with her ability to spark dialogue and challenge norms. Her sindoor and mangalsutra may have divided opinion, but they also united fans in admiration for her authenticity and pride.

In the end, perhaps that’s what true style is all about—being unapologetically yourself, no matter what the world says.