It was a no-holds-barred look. Built around a white peacock concept, the gown was all about the details: Mukesh, Zardozi, and mirror work to make sure it had some presence under the lights. Then you have the accessories. The gajra and ear cuffs are as Indian as they come, and that’s where the subcontinental one-upmanship kicked in. Some were there to praise, others to side-eye. And of course, the inevitable comment from an Indian user: “Theyre always copying us.”
Craft over controversy
Hussain Rehar says it took 50 or so artisans and 2,354 hours to put together, and you can see why it made for a good photo op. For some, the handiwork is what matters; for others, like those who were quick to compare her to Alia Bhatt, the copycat talk was more interesting.
Here are a few reactions that capture the tone online:
– Dress is disappointing
– Outfit clearly lack structure
– She knows how to carry herself with elegance
– Compare her directly to Alia Bhatt
– Theyre always copying us
A red carpet with purpose and a tribute
But there was more to it than just a pretty dress. As the first honoree for Us Studios’ South Asian Women Excellence in Cinema & Arts, Sanam has been making waves in film and TV. She also used the moment to do right by the memory of Shamim Ara. The late actor and filmmaker opened doors for women in Pakistan, and Sanam made sure to put that kind of legacy in front of the world, not just give it a passing mention.
How India tuned the festivals style dial
Then you have the Indian contingent on the French Riviera this year. Between Alia Bhatt, Roopi Gill, Huma Qureshi and the rest, they had their fair share of eyes on them. You had your handwoven sarees, some Punjabi tailoring, a bit of old-school Hollywood to it. It was enough to have the fashion crowd on edge.
Accessories that stirred an India-Pakistan style row
Cannes has a way of turning up the heat on these cross-border style spats. Sanam’s choice of headpiece and tika got people talking, but in the end, it was a reminder of what happens when you put style and symbolism in the same room. The debate will likely go on, but for now, the white peacock has made its statement.
