200kg Jewellery: Jodhaa Akbar's Opulent Secret

Eighteen years ago, "Jodhaa Akbar" transported audiences to 16th-century India, blending Mughal and Rajput history. The film's visual splendor, particularly its costumes and jewelry, remains a testament to meticulous artistry. Costume designer Neeta Lulla, a four-time National Award winner, spearheaded this monumental task.

Lulla managed over 200 kg of gold and stone-studded jewelry for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's costumes alone. Such was the value of the adornments that five security guards were dedicated to guarding the jewelry room, meticulously logging every piece. Even a minor incident, like a bead falling off an earring, caused considerable panic among the security detail.

The film's impact extends beyond its release. Hrithik Roshan's opulent wedding outfit from "Jodhaa Akbar" continues to inspire, with grooms frequently requesting replicas for their own ceremonies. This enduring appeal highlights the timeless grandeur and artistry of the film's costume and jewelry design.

Neeta Lulla also shared insights into the distinct styles of directors Ashutosh Gowariker and Sanjay Leela Bhansali. While both are perfectionists, Bhansali focuses on fabric and confined spaces, whereas Gowariker emphasizes external grandeur, scale, and the magnificence of jewelry, as seen in "Jodhaa Akbar."