Life & Style

Manish Malhotra Marks 20 Years with Alia Bhatt Throwback Inside the Glamorous Journey

By Editorial Team
Saturday, April 18, 2026
5 min read
Manish Malhotra celebrating 20 years with a collage of runway moments
Manish Malhotra looks back at two decades of glamour.

Manish Malhotra celebrates 20 years of his eponymous label

When I first heard about the latest news India surrounding Manish Malhotra’s 20th anniversary, I thought it would be another glossy press release. But scrolling through Manish Malhotra’s Instagram feed, I felt like I was flipping through an old family album full of backstage chaos, glittering gowns, and those little moments that never make it to the magazine covers.

Manish Malhotra started out as a film stylist back in 1990 and, over the years, turned that experience into a full‑blown fashion empire that now lights up red carpets and wedding aisles across the country. The fact that the label has survived and thrived for two whole decades feels a bit like watching a beloved Bollywood franchise grow up you cheer for every hit, you feel the sting of every flop, and you always keep an eye on what’s coming next.

A throwback snap with Alia Bhatt steals the show

One of the most talked‑about posts in the viral news wave was a throwback picture featuring Alia Bhatt. In the post, Manish Malhotra shared a backstage moment where Alia Bhatt was putting the final touches on her look, right before the cameras started rolling. The caption read like a love letter to the whole process from “Backstage Final Adjustments” to “Sketching to finally Garments worn by Gorgeous Models”.

What happened next is interesting: many people were surprised by this because the photo was from 2017, the year Alia Bhatt strutted the ramp alongside Ranveer Singh. Seeing Alia Bhatt’s name pop up again after all these years reminded fans that some collaborations become timeless, just like the tulle and embroidery that Manish Malhotra is famous for.

Reading the caption felt like listening to a friend narrating an old story over chai. Manish Malhotra talked about “the beautiful pictures of pretty timeless colours and intricate Embroiders”, the “captivating long trail” of a bride, and the overall magic that haunts the design studio even after 20 years.

The 2017 India Couture Week spectacle “Sensual Affair”

If you are following the trending news India, you might recall that in July 2017 Manish Malhotra closed India Couture Week with a show called “Sensual Affair”. The runway boasted an impressive 85 looks, each one meticulously crafted to showcase the brand’s signature blend of Indian tradition and Hollywood glitz.

The show wasn’t just about the clothes; it was a full‑on experience. Attendees in the front row were given a special dress code that matched the theme, making the whole event feel like an exclusive party rather than a standard fashion show. The cherry on top? The showstoppers were none other than Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh two of the most popular, up‑and‑coming actors at the time.

Now, imagine the backstage chatter models hustling, designers shouting last‑minute changes, and the hum of sewing machines. That very atmosphere is what Manish Malhotra tried to capture in the Instagram post, describing the whole journey from “final fittings” to “press conference adjustments”. It’s a reminder that every glittering gown has a mountain of sweat behind it.

Alia Bhatt’s iconic tulle lehenga details that dazzled

Alia Bhatt’s look that night is still talked about in fashion circles. The tulle lehenga she wore was layered with rosettes and featured a separate crinoline skirt that gave the silhouette an ethereal bounce. The bodice was sheer, embroidered with silver motifs, and had a daring plunging V‑neck that added a modern edge.

What made the ensemble truly unforgettable was the long, sheer train that trailed behind her, paired with a slicked‑back bun and a bold red lip a classic Bollywood finish. Even after all these years, fans still quote the description of that look as a benchmark for bridal couture. The fact that Manish Malhotra chose Alia Bhatt for this piece also highlighted the trust the designer placed in the actress’s ability to carry such a lavish creation.

For many, that moment became a reference point for future weddings. You could see the same design elements popping up in bridal boutiques across Delhi and Mumbai, proving that a single runway moment can set a trend that lasts for years.

When Hollywood met Indian couture Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway

Switching gears to international glamour, the story of Manish Malhotra designing for Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway added another layer of excitement to the breaking news that circulated on social media. While Karan Johar was in Tokyo promoting “The Devil Wears Prada 2”, images emerged of Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway meeting him. Rumours swirled that Karan Johar had a special gift from Manish Malhotra for the two Hollywood legends.

Manish Malhotra has always spoken about his admiration for both Meryl Streep and Anne Hathaway. According to a Filmfare report, Manish Malhotra selected pieces from his international collection specifically tailored to each actress’s style. For Meryl Streep, the designer envisioned a structured power suit that mirrored her commanding screen presence and timeless elegance. For Anne Hathaway, the choice leaned towards a contemporary silhouette that highlighted her youthful confidence.

This collaboration became a part of the viral news cycle because it showed how Indian designers are breaking into global fashion corridors. It also sparked conversations among fashion enthusiasts about how cultural exchange can shape design sensibilities on both sides of the world.

Why the 20‑year milestone matters for Indian fashion

Manish Malhotra’s two‑decade journey is more than just a personal achievement; it reflects the evolution of Indian fashion itself. Back in the early ’90s, Indian designers were still searching for a voice that could resonate with both Bollywood and the global market. Manish Malhotra’s ability to blend opulent Indian craftsmanship with Hollywood chic paved the way for many emerging designers.

When I think about the 20‑year anniversary, I can’t help but recall the countless weddings where brides walked down the aisle in a Manish Malhotra creation, each piece telling a story of love, tradition, and modernity. The label’s influence is evident in the way everyday shoppers in Indian malls now look for “designer fusion” outfits that echo the same spirit.

In most cases, the success of a brand like Manish Malhotra hinges on staying relevant while honoring heritage. That delicate balance is what keeps the studio buzzing with new ideas, whether it’s a futuristic gown for a Hollywood star or a classic lehenga for a Bollywood bride.

Personal takeaways and what to watch for next

From a personal viewpoint, reading through Manish Malhotra’s Instagram throwback felt like peeking behind the curtains of a big Bollywood production you see the drama, the sweat, the laughter, and the perfection that finally lands on the runway. It reminded me that behind every stunning photograph in the media lies hours of meticulous work.

Looking ahead, the excitement around Manish Malhotra’s future collections is palpable. With the brand now firmly planted at the intersection of Indian tradition and international luxury, fans eagerly await the next big runway moment that will likely become the next piece of trending news India.

So, if you love fashion, Bollywood, or just enjoy a good story of perseverance and creativity, keep an eye on Manish Malhotra’s upcoming projects. As the designer himself would probably say, every stitch tells a story, and after 20 years, there are still many chapters left to write.

Source: Various media reports and Manish Malhotra’s official Instagram account.
#sensational#life & style#global#trending

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