Cannes 2026 has brought a wave of nostalgia for Bollywood's grand costumes, contrasting today's lightweight couture with the heavy, handcrafted outfits of the past. Iconic pieces like Madhubala's light blue and red Anarkali from the 1960 epic 'Mughal-e-Azam' exemplify the era's grandeur, captivating audiences with their artistry. Madhuri Dixit's emerald-green lehenga in 'Devdas' (2002) weighed over 10 kg, showcasing intricate mirror work and heavy embroidery, while Deepika Padukone's 30 kg lehenga in 'Padmaavat' (2018) featured dense Rajasthani embroidery and jewels, giving her character a regal presence. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's costumes in 'Jodhaa Akbar' (2008) were so exquisite that some have been displayed in museums. These costumes not only reflect the artistry of Bollywood but also continue to inspire modern fashion.