Celebrities Channelled Old School Charm At The 'Umrao Jaan' Screening

The re-release of Umrao Jaan (1981) brought more than just nostalgia to the big screen. Directed by Muzaffar Ali and starring Rekha in one of her most iconic roles, the film is known for its music, poetic storytelling, and stunning visuals that still hold up more than four decades later.

Ahead of the re-release, a special screening was held in Mumbai to celebrate the cult classic. At the screening, the celebrities on the red carpet came dressed in their maximalist best, with rich textures, timeless silhouettes, and that unmistakable old-world charm. 

Rekha, who won the National Award for her performance in the film, lit up the evening in a Manish Malhotra creation. But she wasn’t the only one channelling the spirit of Umrao Jaan. Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, and more brought looks that felt timeless and perfect for the upcoming wedding season.

Here's what celebrities wore to the Umrao Jaan screening

Rekha

Rekha stayed true to her legacy of drama and detail. She wore a custom Manish Malhotra creation. Her outfit featured a kurta crafted from organza with delicate chikankari work, paired with a golden-hued tissue lehenga that moved like liquid gold. A silver zari dupatta with Banarasi gold weaving framed the look, and she tied it all together with statement polki jewellery, heavy jhumkas, a matching necklace, and a stunning chapka headpiece. Her hair was swept back with her signature red lip, and in her hand was a matching potli that completed the ensemble. It’s the kind of look that would turn heads at a wedding reception or a family function, especially if you’re leaning into maximalism with heritage jewellery and textured layering.

Alia Bhatt

Alia Bhatt took a softer approach; she wore a light pink saree, a subtle nod to Rekha’s Silsila saree moment. The drape was clean and classic, and her makeup was fresh and dewy, with flushed cheeks and pink lips. If you’ve been looking for a minimal yet meaningful saree look for an engagement or pre-wedding dinner, this one is a great reference. All it takes is a soft pastel, a good blouse fit, and glowing skin to make it work.

Khushi Kapoor

Khushi Kapoor chose a soft, ivory pantsuit with delicate embroidery. Her hair was tied back in a sleek bun, and she kept her makeup minimal, letting the clean lines of the outfit take centre stage. For those looking to skip the usual ethnicwear, a well-fitted embroidered suit like this can work beautifully for a cocktail or a formal pre-wedding dinner.

Janhvi Kapoor

Janhvi Kapoor arrived in an ivory anarkali set, detailed with a plunging neckline, the fabric flowed around her effortlessly, and she styled the outfit with juttis and statement earrings. What stood out, though, was the faux nose ring,  a small but striking detail that gave the look a slight edge. With minimal makeup and centre-parted hair, she let the outfit and the accessories do all the talking. An ivory or off-white anarkali like this makes for a beautiful choice at a wedding if you're a guest who wants to keep it elegant but still turn heads. Just add a bold accessory like a nose ring or a deep kohl eye to elevate the look.

Vijay Varma

Vijay Varma kept things sharp in an all-black outfit from designer Nikhil Thampi. The silhouette was tailored and clean, with just enough edge to stand out without overpowering the theme of the evening.

Tabu

Tabu was the definition of understated elegance in a deep red gharara. She wore her hair in a low bun, adorned with a white gajra,  a simple touch, but one that instantly brought a sense of tradition and celebration. Her makeup was minimal, just a hint of colour on the lips, and the whole look had this quiet grace about it. A red gharara always holds its own in the festive wardrobe. You can wear it to a sangeet or wedding and pair it with jasmine flowers in your hair for that effortless regal touch.

Mira Rajput Kapoor

Mira Rajput kept things easy and elegant in a soft pink salwar suit. She styled it with a golden potli bag that added just the right amount of festive touch. It’s one of those accessories that can instantly lift even a minimal outfit and make it feel ready for a celebration. Mira’s look is perfect for daytime functions like a haldi or a small puja. If you’re not big on heavy jewellery or too much styling, a well-chosen potli is a great way to bring in some sparkle without doing too much.