Kareena Kapoor Khan has always been a showstopper, and when it came to celebrating her 25-year milestone in Bollywood, she wasn’t going to let anyone else take the spotlight!
On Wednesday, at a film festival launched in her honour by PVR INOX, she stunned everyone in a vintage Banarasi saree that had all the glam of yesteryears with a thoroughly modern twist. It’s almost as if time was bending to her will, as she transformed a 25-year-old treasure into a contemporary masterpiece that had everyone talking. And when Kareena’s involved, fashion is never just fashion—it’s an event.
The Banarasi saree she wore wasn’t just pulled out from a dusty corner of a closet. No, this piece of history was revived with a modern makeover, and it was a sight to behold. Amit Aggarwal, the Indian fashion designer behind the magic, took this beautiful pre-loved saree and turned it into something no one saw coming. Using innovative restoration techniques and his signature structured drape, he kept the original fabric intact—no cutting, no snipping—just pure creativity at play.
Inspired by his latest couture line, ANTEVORTA, which explores the concept of ‘time’, Amit Aggarwal perfectly captured the essence of the past while pushing it straight into the future. It was an off-shoulder saree-turned-gown that hugged Kareena in all the right places while still allowing the traditional textile’s beautiful paisley and floral ‘booti’ motifs to shine.
And then there was the jewellery. Let’s say the Bollywood diva didn’t come to play. A statement pendant featuring three striking stones, mismatched crescent moon earrings adorned with red and green gems, and a sleek gold traditional Indian bindi tied the entire look together in the most enchanting way possible.
Jewellery designer Aditi Amin leaned into a mythical vibe, and it worked. It was as if Kareena was channelling some modern-day goddess with a dash of old-school Bollywood glam. The attention to detail was impeccable—from her elegant gold earrings to her subtle bindi, adding a perfect touch of tradition, balancing the otherwise bold look.
Adding to the magic of the evening, Kareena’s sleek bun and glowing makeup brought her look full circle. With her peachy nude lipstick, rosy cheeks, and just the right amount of highlight, Micky Contractor’s makeup artistry perfectly complemented the goddess vibes she was serving. Smoky eyes? Check. Understated, yet radiant skin? Double check. This wasn’t just a throwback to the old days of Bollywood glam—it was a celebration of everything she’s been and everything she’s still becoming!
Naturally, the internet went wild. The comments section quickly blew up when Kareena posted the look on her Instagram. Her sister and actress Karisma Kapoor dropped yellow hearts and sparkles (because, obviously), and her sister-in-law Saba Pataudi left a trail of hearts because, well, it’s Bebo. When your outfit is fire and your family is hyping you up, that’s when you know you’ve nailed it!
But this wasn’t just a fashion moment—it was a celebration of an incredible career. For 25 years, Kareena has delivered both iconic performances and unforgettable pop-style moments. Think back to Poo from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham or Geet from Jab We Met—these aren’t just movie characters; they’re cultural milestones.
And to mark the occasion, Kareena didn’t just show up, she showed out. The festival, a first-of-its-kind tribute to an Indian actress, is a full-blown love letter to her two and a half decades of cinema, where she’s shaped, re-shaped, and flat-out owned pop culture in India. The week-long film festival will run in over 30 cinema halls in 15 cities in India from September 20 to September 27.
The night wasn’t just about reflecting on the past. Kareena’s recent work continues to garner applause. Her latest thriller/mystery film, The Buckingham Murders, hit theatres on September 13 and is already drawing rave reviews.
And as if that weren’t enough, she’s also gearing up for Singham Again, where she’ll be sharing the screen with Bollywood heavyweights like Ajay Devgn, Deepika Padukone, and Akshay Kumar this November. Clearly, Kareena Kapoor Khan is far from slowing down, and she’s doing it all while looking like a dream in a 25-year-old saree that still manages to feel utterly fresh.
Banarasi sarees have long symbolised India’s rich heritage, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty. By choosing to wear this pre-loved piece, Kareena did more than make a fashion statement—she paid tribute to her roots while showing how traditional fabrics can still have a place in modern haute couture. Amit Aggarwal’s creation was a masterstroke, skillfully reimagining the classic into the contemporary without losing the essence of what makes the Banarasi saree such an iconic part of Indian culture.
Kareena’s look is just another reminder that, like her career, some things only get better with time. Whether she’s redefining pop culture with her film roles or pushing the boundaries of fashion, Kareena Kapoor Khan continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Her 25-year journey is proof that she’s not just staying relevant—she’s leading the charge, both on-screen and off.
As we wait for her next big-screen appearance, one thing’s for sure: Kareena Kapoor Khan will continue to set trends, break boundaries, and wow us all with her impeccable sense of style.