Alia Bhatt marked a significant milestone in her international journey as she made her debut at the 79th British Academy Film Awards in London. Attending as a presenter for the Best Film Not in the English Language category, Alia represented India on a prestigious global platform with poise and unmistakable star power.
For her first BAFTA appearance, Alia chose a custom sequined Gucci gown that shimmered under the flashes of the red carpet cameras. The backless ankle length silver ensemble was paired with an ivory faux fur stole draped elegantly over her shoulders, creating a look that felt both timeless and dramatic. Styled by Rebecca Corbin Murray, the outfit was a deliberate tribute to Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe.
Monroe had famously worn a similar silver gown with a white stole during a promotional shoot for her 1950 film All About Eve. Drawing inspiration from that iconic image, Alia embraced the glamour of Old Hollywood while adding her own contemporary touch. She wore her hair in soft loose waves and accessorised with statement earrings and ornate rings, allowing the gown to remain the focal point.
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While Monroe influenced the silhouette and styling of the gown, Alia also acknowledged Indian cinema’s enduring style icon Rekha as a personal muse, especially when it comes to timeless beauty and grace. For her hairstyle, she cited French screen legend Brigitte Bardot, and for her overall aesthetic, she looked to Italian actress Monica Bellucci. The result was a refined blend of Western vintage glamour and Indian elegance.
Adding another meaningful layer to her appearance, Alia began her opening remarks in Hindi, a gesture that subtly brought Indian language and culture to an international stage. As India’s first global ambassador for Gucci, her presence at the ceremony reflected not only personal achievement but also the growing influence of Indian talent in global fashion and cinema.
Alia joined a distinguished list of presenters that included Alicia Vikander, Bryan Cranston, Cillian Murphy, Delroy Lindo and Emily Watson. In previous years, Indian actresses Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone have also taken the BAFTA stage, further strengthening India’s presence at international award ceremonies.
On the professional front, Alia continues to balance global visibility with an ambitious film slate back home. She has two major projects in the pipeline, Alpha and Love & War, both of which are highly anticipated.
With her BAFTA debut, Alia Bhatt did more than simply walk a red carpet. She paid homage to cinema’s golden era, celebrated her cultural roots, and reaffirmed her place as one of India’s most prominent global ambassadors.
