Ananya Panday to Janhvi Kapoor: Rekha-inspired Anarkali suits donned by Bollywood actresses

The restored version of Muzaffar Ali’s classic Umrao Jaan, starring the evergreen Rekha, hit the big screen once again on June 27, 2025. Originally released in 1981, this 19th-century tragic tale follows Rekha’s character, Amiran, and is packed with iconic looks, mesmerizing songs, and deep emotions. At the premiere, Rekha herself stunned in true diva style, inspiring several Bollywood actresses to pay tribute by donning gorgeous Anarkali suits, looks that definitely deserve a spot on your ethnic Pinterest board. From weddings to festive celebrations, these Rekha-inspired twirls bring timeless elegance and magic to any occasion.

Gracing the event in a pristine white Anarkali that beautifully paid tribute to Rekha, Chanel’s first Indian global ambassador Ananya Panday went full traditional in a classic Rohit Bal creation. The floor-length outfit featured a modest sweetheart neckline and full sleeves, flowing into a flared, voluminous skirt paired with a churidar bottom. Skipping any heavy statement necklace, she let the outfit shine on its own, accessorizing only with delicate chandelier earrings and a sleek ring.

(Image Credits: Instagram)

Bhagyashree, the real-life princess of the Marathi royal family of Sangli, has won millions of hearts with her unforgettable role as ‘Suman’ in Maine Pyar Kiya. Occasionally sharing glimpses of her personal life, the diva made a stunning appearance at the Umrao Jaan re-release premiere. Paying homage to Rekha’s iconic style, she wore a cream-hued Anarkali featuring unique front detailing, elevated with a modern touch, a golden belt cinched at the waist. Paired with churidar pants and a dupatta edged with delicate golden frills, she gracefully owned the red carpet with undeniable elegance and timeless charm.
(Image Credits: Instagram)

Decked out in a custom ivory Anarkali for the screening, Janhvi’s tribute to Rekha’s unforgettable portrayal of the graceful and poetic courtesan is truly unforgettable. She wore a flared Anarkali with multiple kalis, showcasing a stunning blend of craftsmanship, featuring a sweetheart neckline and a corset-style bodice that perfectly balanced sensuality with elegance, just like Rekha’s character in the film. This statement piece from the House of Kotwara beautifully combined intricate zardozi, kaamdani, and chikankari embroidery, accented with the label’s signature pearls. Fans of the film know that pearls are synonymous with Umrao, making this look all the more meaningful.
(Image Credits: Instagram)

As every celebrity added their own creative flair to pay tribute to Rekha’s iconic role in Umrao Jaan, Bollywood’s favourite Tabu chose to grace the carpet in a bridal-inspired outfit from Heena Kochar’s collection. Capturing Amiran’s deep longing to marry her lover, Tabu wore a red silk-linen kurta layered over a flared red Chanderi skirt that carried the elegance of an Anarkali, beautifully detailed with gota work. She finished the look with a red organza dupatta and a matching potli bag from Love to Bag, perfectly completing her traditional yet regal ensemble.
(Image Credits: Instagram)

Looking absolutely magical at the re-release event, Fatima Sana Shaikh caught everyone’s eye in a plain white organza flared Anarkali paired with matching churidar and a sleek net dupatta adorned with delicate floral detailing along the border, adding just the right touch of elegance. Radiating an effortless, dream-like charm in this pristine ethnic look, Fatima kept it anything but basic by accessorizing with a golden clutch, dangling earrings, and a stack of stylish rings.
(Image Credits: Instagram)