As India immerses itself in the joyous rhythms of Navratri 2025, Nita Ambani, the visionary philanthropist, business magnate, and unwavering advocate for Indian heritage, has once again redefined festive elegance. Renowned for her impeccable sartorial choices that seamlessly fuse tradition with opulence, Ambani unveiled a breathtaking lehenga look that pays homage to the festival's spiritual core: the nine vibrant colors symbolizing Goddess Durga's nine forms, or Navadurgas. Shared via a mesmerizing Instagram carousel by her longtime makeup artist Mickey Contractor, the ensemble serves as a masterclass in Garba-ready glamour, inspiring fashion enthusiasts nationwide to infuse their celebrations with cultural depth and luxurious flair.
Navratri, a nine-night extravaganza from September 22 to October 1 this year, honors Durga's triumph over evil through dance, devotion, and dazzling attire. Each day corresponds to a specific color—red for Shailaputri, royal blue for Brahmacharini, yellow for Chandraghanta, green for Kushmanda, grey for Skandamata, orange for Katyayani, white for Kalaratri, peacock green for Mahagauri, and pink for Siddhidatri—believed to channel the deity's energies. Ambani's look ingeniously incorporates all nine shades in a harmonious patchwork, transforming her outfit into a wearable tribute to this divine spectrum. This thoughtful nod not only elevates her personal style but also underscores her role as a cultural ambassador, using fashion as a medium to preserve and promote India's artisanal legacy.
At the heart of the ensemble is a resplendent Banarasi lehenga skirt, hailing from the looms of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh—a UNESCO-recognized craft synonymous with royal opulence since the 16th century. Crafted from a mosaic of multicolored fabrics, the skirt boasts intricate zari work—gold and silver threads woven in geometric and floral motifs—and hand-embroidered motifs depicting mythical motifs inspired by the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The hemline, fringed with heavy, cascading laces in contrasting hues, sways gracefully with every step, evoking the fluid energy of Garba and Dandiya dances. This labor-intensive piece, often taking weavers weeks to complete, exemplifies Banarasi silk's sheen and durability, making it ideal for the festival's high-energy revelries.
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Complementing the skirt is a fitted pink blouse, a nod to Siddhidatri's auspicious hue, embellished with shimmering gold and bronze embroidery that catches the light like temple diyas. The short-sleeved design features delicate scalloped edges and mirror-work insets along the neckline and cuffs, adding a subtle sparkle without overwhelming the overall palette. Draped over the blouse is a flowing pink dupatta adorned with leheriya prints—a time-honored Rajasthani tie-dye technique where fabric is rolled and bound before dyeing to create undulating, wave-like patterns symbolizing monsoon rains and prosperity. Worn in the classic seedha pallu style—draped straight over the shoulder—it cascades elegantly, balancing the lehenga's volume and enhancing mobility for dance-floor spins.
No Ambani appearance is complete without her signature jewelry prowess, drawn from her vast collection curated through Reliance's retail arm, which champions Indian gemstones. This time, she opted for a multi-strand diamond choker necklace, its luminous white stones interspersed with vivid green emeralds—sourced from Colombia's famed Muzo mines—evoking Durga's emerald forests. Matching chandelier earrings, each dangling with emerald drops and diamond fringes, frame her face with regal poise. A ornate maang tikka, featuring a central emerald pendant flanked by diamond petals, crowns her forehead, while stacks of colorful bangles in glass, lac, and metal chime harmoniously. An oversized cocktail ring, boasting a cabochon emerald surrounded by pavé diamonds, adorns her finger, serving as a bold statement piece.
Ambani's beauty look, masterminded by Mickey Contractor—a veteran of Bollywood red carpets and international runways—radiates ethereal grace. Her eyes, lined with precise winged kohl and amplified by voluminous mascara, convey the fierce determination of Durga's warrior spirit. Cheeks glow with a soft rose blush, harmonizing with the ensemble's pinks, while a luminous highlighter imparts a dewy, post-puja sheen. Glossy nude lips, enhanced with a subtle tint, ensure the focus remains on her expressive features. Her hair, styled in a sleek middle-parted bun secured with pearl pins, exudes poise, and a bold red bindi—an auspicious tilak—centers her visage, invoking blessings for the festivities ahead.
This ensemble, estimated to cost upwards of ₹50 lakh given the bespoke craftsmanship and heirloom jewels, aligns with Ambani's ethos of sustainable luxury: supporting over 500 Banarasi weavers through initiatives like the Reliance Foundation's artisan programs. As Garba nights ignite across India—from Mumbai's Juhu Beach to Ahmedabad's Sabarmati Riverfront—Ambani's look offers practical inspiration: layer colors for versatility, prioritize breathable silks for dancing, and let jewelry tell a story of heritage. In an era of fast fashion, her choice champions slow, ethical couture, reminding us that true festivity lies in celebrating roots with radiant reinvention.
As Navratri unfolds, Nita Ambani's vision continues to inspire, proving that style, like devotion, is best served with heart, heritage, and a touch of timeless sparkle.
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