Her lehenga from the movie will be part of an exhibition…
Aishwarya Rai is the latest Bollywood star to feature on the official social media accounts of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. They have shared a video clip of her from the hit 2008 movie Jodha Akbar with a special announcement.
The Academy announced that Jodha's wedding lehenga from the movie will be part of an exhibition for the Academy Museum: “A lehenga fit for a queen, 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. 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.”
The accompanying video showcases scenes from Ashutosh Gowariker's movie, featuring Hrithik Roshan as the Mughal Emperor, Akbar. It also displays glimpses of the lehenga as it appears today, draped on a mannequin.
Fans of the actor were thrilled to see her on the Academy's page. One fan commented, “Dear Hollywood, can you match these aesthetics?” Another remarked, “So the Academy finally recognized Aishwarya Rai's movie.” Someone else pointed out that the clip used wasn’t the same one that showed the lehenga. The red lehenga with an orange blouse was worn by Aishwarya in the royal feast scene.
Earlier, the Academy had shared movie clips featuring Deepika Padukone and Shah Rukh Khan as well. These were scenes from Bajirao Mastani, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and even Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.
Meanwhile, the Oscar nominations will be revealed on January 17. India’s entry Laapataa Ladies is no longer in the race for Best International Feature. All hopes now lie with Payal Kapadia, aiming for an independent nomination in the Best Director category for All We Imagine As Light.
Guneet Monga's Anuja has been shortlisted for Best Live-Action Short Film. The film addresses the significant issue of child labor in the garment industry and stars actor Nagesh Bhonsle in a pivotal role. The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 3, 2025.
In addition to Anuja, another film still in the Oscars race is Santosh, a British-Indian film directed by Sandhya Suri. Starring actress Shahana Goswami, Santosh is the United Kingdom’s official entry for the Oscars. The film premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year.
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