“Sindoor at Cannes: Aishwarya’s Subtle Nod to Domestic Harmony and Operation Sindoor”

By Anil Merani: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan’s appearance at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where she wore an ivory Banarasi saree by Manish Malhotra, sparked widespread discussion due to its perceived dual messaging. Her bold red sindoor, a traditional Hindu symbol of marital status, was interpreted by some as a personal statement addressing rumors of marital discord with her husband, Abhishek Bachchan. Fans and netizens saw her confident display of the sindoor and wedding ring as a subtle affirmation that “all is well” on the domestic front, countering speculation about their marriage. Social media posts and media reports highlighted this sentiment, with fans praising her for “shutting down trolls” and representing Indian women with dignity.

Simultaneously, her sindoor was widely connected to India’s Operation Sindoor, a significant military operation that took place on May 7-8, 2025. This operation targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the death of 26 civilians. Many online commentators, including journalist Barkha Dutt and actress Celina Jaitly, interpreted Aishwarya’s look as a silent tribute to the operation, reflecting patriotism and cultural pride. The vibrant sindoor was viewed as a nod to the operation’s name and its symbolic significance, especially given its timing just weeks after the military action. Social media reactions, with some calling her a “true patriot” and linking her look to the operation’s success, further amplified this narrative.

However, Aishwarya has not publicly confirmed these interpretations, leading to speculation that her sindoor could also represent a bold fashion statement or a celebration of Indian culture, as noted by designer Manish Malhotra. Malhotra, known for celebrating Indian textiles, described the ensemble as a “celebration of handwoven Indian textiles.” Some reports suggest it was a multifaceted gesture, blending personal, cultural, and possibly patriotic elements without explicit commentary from the actress herself.

The dual narrative—personal reassurance and potential support for Operation Sindoor—has made her Cannes appearance one of the most talked-about events. This intricate narrative, which resonated globally for its elegance and layered symbolism, showcases Aishwarya’s ability to use her appearance to convey multiple messages.

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