Aishwarya to Janhvi: Bollywood revives the ‘apsara’ look
In the past few years, ‘fairy-core’ has fluttered across the global fashion scene like a spell soft hues, ethereal silhouettes, and angelic makeup have become the markers of a dreamlike aesthetic.
From Taylor Swift’s The Fate of Ophelia look to the luminous faces of Bridgerton, this whimsical trend has dominated Western beauty narratives. But in India, where mythology and fashion often intertwine, a new homegrown version of the trend has emerged — the ‘Apsara Aesthetic.’
The mythical origins of the apsara
Rooted in Indian mythology, the Apsaras celestial nymphs of unparalleled beauty have long represented grace, allure, and otherworldly charm. And now, that divine essence is making a comeback, not through ancient scriptures, but through runways, films, and social media.
Many Indians’ first visual experience of an Apsara was through B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat flowing drapes, floral jewellery and luminous faces. Millennials who grew up on Amar Chitra Katha comics saw them as celestial beings draped in gold and silk, gracefully drifting through blooming clouds of mythology.
Modern designers reimagine the divine
Today’s designers and stylists are reconstructing that fantasy for a new era. At Raabta by Rahul, Kangana Ranaut’s look embodied a divine being layered with cascading florals and delicate drapery.
Jacqueline Fernandez’s music video styles radiated celestial energy, while makeup artist Shaan Muttathil’s ‘Apsara’ shoot with Subhiksha Shivakumar drew attention for blending recession-era mythology with modern-day editorial glamour.
Bollywood’s love affair with the apsara aesthetic
Bollywood, ever the trend catalyst, has embraced this ethereal aesthetic wholeheartedly. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s As̅oka look remains an early visual reference bold eyes, sculpted hair, and sensual drapery evoking both strength and softness.
Fast forward to now, and the new generation is carrying that torch forward. Janhvi Kapoor’s ‘Chuttamalle’ outfit shimmered in whites and golds, while Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Sobhita Dhulipala and Trisha Krishnan in Ponniyin Selvan epitomised timeless elegance.
Meanwhile, Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s Shaakuntalam look became a masterclass in divine detailing beaded veils, flower-laden braids, and translucent silks.
Each of these moments has revived a mythical femininity once confined to temple sculptures and folklore.
What defines the apsara look
The Apsara aesthetic is a blend of classical Indian artistry and otherworldly sensuality, a visual symphony of grace and divinity.
- Draped sarees with whimsically flowing silhouettes.
- Pastel and gold palettes inspired by celestial imagery.
- Floral adornments woven through hair and jewellery.
- Minimal yet glowing makeup, highlighting soft eyes and radiant skin.
- Statement hairstyles braided or sculpted like halos or vines.
The Apsara look isn’t just a costume; it’s a revival of cultural imagination, celebrating divine femininity, purity, and power all at once.
India’s own ethereal fantasy
The Apsara Aesthetic shows that we don’t need to look West for fantasy inspiration. India’s storytelling, spirituality, and history have always had their own brand of magic, one with depth, meaning, and grace.
As the global fashion world rushes toward fairy-core and cottage-core, this Indian reinterpretation stands out for its authenticity and emotional resonance.
Embrace your Inner apsara
With every cascading gajra, shimmering dupatta, and glimmering eye, the Apsara aesthetic reminds us that beauty isn’t borrowed, it’s reborn from our myths.
