Aishwarya Rai's Iconic Jodha Akbar Lehenga Showcased at The Academy Museum. Watch

Bollywood icon Aishwarya Rai has made a striking appearance on the official social media pages of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

The Academy shared a video clip from her 2008 hit film Jodha Akbar, along with an announcement that has thrilled fans worldwide. 

Source : Instagram/@theacademy

Bollywood icon Aishwarya Rai has made a striking appearance on the official social media pages of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The Academy shared a video clip from her 2008 hit film Jodha Akbar, along with an announcement that has thrilled fans worldwide. 

Jodha Akbar’s wedding lehenga in Academy Museum 

The Academy shared that the intricately designed red lehenga worn by Aishwarya as Jodha Bai in the film will be showcased at the Academy Museum’s Color in Motion exhibition. In their post, they wrote: 

“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 showed scenes from Ashutosh Gowariker's period drama, which also starred Hrithik Roshan as Mughal Emperor Akbar. It showcased the iconic lehenga, now preserved on a mannequin, offering a closer look at the exquisite craftsmanship. 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by The Academy (@theacademy)

Netizens react

Fans were ecstatic to see Aishwarya featured on the Academy’s page, praising both her performance and the film’s grandeur. One user commented, “Dear Hollywood, Can you beat these aesthetics?” Another noted, “So Academy finally recognised Aishwarya Rai Movie.” However, some fans pointed out that the clip used in the post did not show the wedding lehenga but another outfit worn by the actress during a royal feast scene. 

This isn’t the first time the Academy has spotlighted Indian cinema. Previously, clips from films like Bajirao Mastani featuring Deepika Padukone and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge starring Shah Rukh Khan were also shared. 

The 97th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place on March 3, 2025.