Aishwarya Rai’s Second Cannes Look Stuns in Velvet, Crystal Embellishments, and Sanskrit Flair

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan once again lit up the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, this time with a look that seamlessly blended Indian couture with spiritual symbolism. Following the buzz around her first-day appearance—where she wore an ivory saree paired with a bold stroke of vermillion, interpreted by many as a nod to traditional values and a subtle rebuke to divorce rumours—her second ensemble took a dramatically different yet equally captivating direction.

The former Miss World stepped out in a custom Gaurav Gupta creation, featuring a striking black velvet gown that echoed the glamour of old Hollywood. The real showstopper, however, was the sculpted Banarasi brocade cape that cascaded behind her, exuding royalty and craftsmanship.

According to an exclusive Vogue interview with the designer, the gown was hand-embroidered with microglass crystals and cosmic-inspired detailing in shades of silver, gold, charcoal, and black. But it was the cape that truly set this look apart—it was handwoven in Varanasi and inscribed with a Sanskrit shloka from the Bhagavad Gita.

Speaking to fashion account Diet Sabya, Gaurav Gupta revealed that the embroidered verse was “Karmanye vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana, Ma Karmaphalaheturbhurma Te Sangostvakarmani,” which translates to: “You have the right to perform your duties, but not to the fruits thereof.” A powerful spiritual message woven into a high-fashion moment.

Complementing her look, Aishwarya wore her hair in voluminous, side-parted waves, reminiscent of retro glamour. Her makeup was subtle yet impactful—bold eyes, a clean base, and a signature red lip that tied the whole ensemble together.

Social media and fashion critics alike lauded her for bridging heritage and haute couture. If her first Cannes 2025 look was a statement of tradition and identity, this second appearance stood as a celebration of evolution, grace, and timeless elegance.

Both appearances served as a reminder that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan continues to be a powerful ambassador of Indian culture and fashion—whether she’s draped in vermillion or cloaked in velvet.