Alia Bhatt Channels Rekha’s Iconic ‘Silsila’ Look at Umrao Jaan Screening
Mumbai, 27 June 2025 — In a tribute that bridged generations of Bollywood elegance, Alia Bhatt turned heads at the special screening of the restored classic Umrao Jaan. The actress paid homage to Rekha’s unforgettable pink saree look from Yash Chopra’s cult film Silsila (1981), demonstrating a seamless blend of nostalgia and modernity.
Alia chose a baby-pink—or some might say lilac—custom-crafted saree by TT Custom Couture, artfully styled by her longtime collaborator, Rhea Kapoor. The ensemble combined a high-neck blouse with soft waterfall pleats and feather earrings, echoing the ethereal charm of Rekha’s original appearance. Her makeup—minimal, with dewy highlights and glossy lips—balanced vintage grace and contemporary chic, while her hair flowed effortlessly, underscoring a modern yet timeless silhouette.
Rhea Kapoor confirmed the inspiration by posting side-by-side images from Silsila on her Instagram stories. The intentional tribute was met with acclaim, reflecting a deep understanding of Bollywood’s rich fashion history. Celebrated fashion critic Diet Sabya summarized the homage best: “Reference done right. Modern.”
Fans and fashion insiders alike appreciated Alia’s reverent yet personal interpretation. One social media reaction noted, “It’s her most striking saree moment yet,” while others lauded the look as a masterclass in blending classic inspiration with Gen-Z sensibility.
The starry event also brought Bollywood royalty to the red carpet. Rekha herself appeared in a regal white-and-gold outfit, designed by Manish Malhotra. The veteran actress was greeted with overt admiration, hugging Tabu, dancing with Anil Kapoor, and even stopping to share warm moments with Aamir Khan and Hema Malini. Photographs captured Alia Bhatt and Rekha sharing smiles and heartfelt greetings near a display celebrating the cinematic legacy of Umrao Jaan.
Umrao Jaan, originally released in 1981 under director Muzaffar Ali, is widely regarded as a timeless masterpiece, loved for Rekha’s spellbinding performance as the courtesan Amiran. Restored in 4K under the National Film Archive of India’s heritage mission, the film returned to theaters on 27 June, offering audiences a chance to recapture its lyricism, music, and period aesthetics.
Alia’s presence at this event highlighted the ongoing relevance of Bollywood’s golden era. By channeling Rekha’s legendary style and attending alongside the icon herself, Alia reaffirmed evolving ties between modern stars and cinema’s enduring landmarks. Her polished tribute echoed Rekha’s poise while also asserting her own identity as a versatile actress and style icon.
As Umrao Jaan returns to cinema screens across India, Alia’s sartorial homage stands as a heartfelt nod to the timeless artistry of Rekha and Yash Chopra. It also affirms how iconic looks—like the pink saree from Silsila—continue to inspire new interpretations, ensuring that Bollywood’s legacy remains vibrantly alive for contemporary audiences. Keep reading Celewood.in for more news.