Amid ongoing separation rumors with Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai has managed to score another great feat. Her iconic wedding lehenga from the 2008 epic *Jodhaa Akbar* has found a new home at the prestigious Academy Museum.
The Academy took to Instagram on Tuesday, revealing that the lehenga Aishwarya wore for Jodha’s wedding to Akbar in the film will feature as part of an exhibition at the museum. “A lehenga fit for a queen,” was what the post said with a montage from the film.
“Designed for the silver screen. In JODHA AKBAR (2008), Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s red wedding lehenga is a feast for the eyes: vibrant zardozi embroidery, centuries-old craftsmanship, and a hidden gem—quite literally. Look closely and you’ll spot a peacock, India’s national bird, made entirely of jewels,” the post went on to say.
The Academy also gave credit to fashion designer Neeta Lulla, who carefully crafted the masterpiece. “Neeta Lulla didn’t design a costume; she crafted a legacy. Step into history (and color) at the Academy Museum’s COLOR IN MOTION exhibition,” they added. Fans were ecstatic over this global recognition and filled the comments section with praise and congratulations. One of the users wrote, “Having been born in the west, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan always made me feel proud of my South Heritage, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful!” Another said, “Glad to see the Academy recognise and appreciate excellence. Really happy to see this being featured at the Academy museum,” while another user added, “Amazing artistry of India’s craftsmen and women who are highly talented! The designs of the jewellery, textiles are breathtaking and there is no comparison around the world! So exhilarating.”
The inclusion of the lehenga marks the first Indian outfit to be displayed at The Academy Museum, a significant achievement. Neeta Lulla, in an interview with *The Print*, said on the announcement, “Digital platforms deserve credit for bringing renewed attention to the work done before the digital era.” She further added, “Indian craftsmanship has long been appreciated. International designers have always sourced embroideries and silk fabrics from India. The lack of recognition earlier wasn’t due to the quality but the absence of social media to amplify it. Now, it’s heartening to see even Gen Z proudly celebrating Indian craftsmanship.”
The stunning costume and powerful performances of Aishwarya Rai in the movie *Jodhaa Akbar*, in which Hrithik Roshan played the role of Emperor Akbar, were greatly acclaimed; so was the soulful music of A. R. Rahman.
