After a magical first red-carpet appearance at the opening ceremony on May 12, 2026, Alia Bhatt embraced India and its roots for the inauguration of the Bharat Pavilion on Day 2 of the 79th Annual Cannes Film Festival.
Embracing India Modern through couturier Tarun Tahiliani’s signature-style draping, Alia Bhatt graced the occasion in a sculpted corset saree realised in a divine shade of ivory. She accessorised her desi look with an intricate nose pin, bindi and contemporary haathphool.Serving yet another masterpiece styled by Rhea Kapoor, Alia Bhatt brought drape drama to Cannes with this second iconic saree look.
Looking like an Indian princess, Alia Bhatt’s saree blends Indian craftsmanship with modern glamour. Known for his age-old draping techniques, Tarun Tahiliani redefines the traditional saree drape through a contemporary lens. Precision sculpting contours the body while preserving the softness, movement, and ease intrinsic to the saree.
Alia looked like royalty as she walked through the by lanes of the festival ground carrying a matching umbrella fit for a queen. Rendered in an ivory palette, Alia’s saree is anchored by a sculpted corset embroidered with tone-on-tone thread work. Delicate detailing traces the neckline, while a pearl-strung back lends subtle sensuality to the monochromatic masterpiece.
Bringing drape drama into Alia’s ensemble are the fluid pre-structured drapes cascading across the body. Thus, merging the ease of a saree with the precision of couture construction. The silhouette is further enhanced with soft cowl detailing, architectural drapes, and an elongated train offering a refined, contemporary interpretation of the traditional Indian saree.
