New Delhi: The ensembles worn by stars at international-level ceremonies are as important as the awards they win. The clothes they wear are indicative of their national pride and through them, celebrities showcase their country’s rich tradition and culture.
Indeed the attires worn by the winning stars at the 95th Academy Awards, apart from showcasing the talent of the artistes, also showed to the world the immensely talented Indian fashion designers.
From handwoven sarees, embroidered gowns to animal motifs featuring the Tiger, India’s National Animal and the gentle giant, the Elephant pin, every ensemble celebrated India in its own unique way. From Ram Charan Teja, Jr NTR to Guandneet Monga and Kartiki Gonsalves, each and everyone opted for ensembles designed by Indian couturiers and designers. Here’s a look at who wore what at the 95th Academy Awards 2023 as compiled by News 18.
Ram Charan Teja in Shantnu & Nikhil
Shantnu & Nikhil are celebrated for their craftsmanship and signature silhouettes in menswear. The designer duo created an empowering ensemble for superstar Ram Charan Teja. Describing the process of creating a style that resonates with the wearer, Shantnu and Nikhil Mehra were quoted as saying, “As designers, when we create an ensemble, we often go and observe the ethos, principles, and integrity, the wearer holds. On the momentous occasion of Ram Charan representing our country, specially RRR at the Oscars, we knew we had to do a piece that honours his character in the film.”
Keeping in mind the character Ram plays in the movie RRR, Shantnu Nikhil designed a bandhgala with a custom Chakra button, medallion-inspired brooches, layered over the classic S&N feminine drape kurta with a gender-fluid twist that celebrates the new India and goes beyond borders.
They further added, “Ram is playing a character of a fighter, who empowers the ones in need, and stands strong for his beliefs. The ensemble has military nuances, which have always been a part of our signature Shantnu & Nikhil ethos. We know a cinematic marvel is created by finesse in details, and the ensemble embodies exactly the same.” Ram Charan Teja was styled by Nikita Jaisinghani.
Upasana Kamineni Konidela in Jayanti Reddy
Ram Charan Teja’s wife, Upasana Kamineni Konidela made a statement in a custom ivory saree designed by celebrated designer Jayanti Reddy, Upasana adorned the saree with an exquisite neckpiece designed by jewellery designer Bina Goenka. She was also styled by Nikita Jaisingani.
Jr NTR in Gaurav Gupta
Gaurav Gupta gave Hollywood a taste of his creativity by designing an exquisite bandhgala for Junior NTR. The star, in turn, gave a shout-out to Gaurav Gupta on the champagne carpet. Taking to Instagram, Gaurav described the idea behind Jr NTR’s iconic ensemble and celebrating India’s National Animal – the Tiger in the form of a statuesque motif, he said: My idea behind designing this exquisite custom-made look for Mr. Jr NTR has been a combination of multiple elements. It was important for me to have the outfit have elements of Jr NTR’s personality while also representing a true global India.”
Describing the inspiration behind the Tiger motif, Gaurav was quoted as saying, “And it all fits together beautifully with the antique Tiger embroidery on the black velvet bandhgala. The Tiger is a homage to India with it being our national animal, a representation of Jr NTR who is also popularly known as the Young Tiger and of course to the film we are celebrating – RRR.” Jr NTR was styled by Ashwin Mawle.
Guneet Mongia in Ekaya Banaras
Producer Guneet Monga looked elegant and graceful in an Ekaya Banaras silk saree at the 95th Academy Awards. Styled by Manisha Melwani, the highlight of Guneet’s look for the day were the elephant-inspired motifs, pin and purse. Taking to Instagram the label Ekaya Banaras called it an honour to dress Guneet in one of their pieces. “It has been an absolute honour to see Guneet Monga in Ekaya Banaras, represent India and how!”
According to Ekaya Banaras, Guneet who looked resplendent in the handwoven pink tanchoi silk sari, wanted to represent her documentary – The Elephant Whispers, and hence, chose to adorn a sari with glorious elephant motifs.
Kartiki Gonsalves in Rahul Mishra
Rahul Mishra’s designs are synonymous with nature. Filmmaker Kartiki Gonsalves celebrated her big win and her moment at the Oscars in a beautiful gown designed by Rahul Mishra.
Taking to Instagram, Rahul Mishra wrote a heartfelt note for Kartiki and about being a part of the big win at the Oscars. He wrote: A pleasure to have been a part of this iconic moment at the Oscars this morning. It fills our hearts with pride and joy as we celebrate the big win for the Elephant Whisperers by Kartiki Gonsalves and Guneet Monga.”
Describing the glorious gown adorned by Kartiki, Rahul further wrote: “Kartiki is dressed in a custom Cosmos gown from our latest couture collection. The embroidery articulates our interpretation of the cosmos, as it celebrates the human relationship with nature and its vivid imagery. We are glad to have found synergy with Kartiki here through our shared philosophies. Kartiki was styled by David Gangel.
