At the 95th Academy Awards, NTR Jr. brought Indian pride to the global stage—not just with RRR‘s historic Oscar win, but through a bold and symbolic fashion choice. As one of India’s most celebrated stars, the Man of the Masses left an indelible mark on the red carpet, sparking a fashion revolution that honored Indian heritage and inspired a wave of creativity.
A Symbol of Strength and Spirit
NTR Jr.’s striking black bandhgala, designed by Gaurav Gupta, featured a gold embroidered tiger motif on one shoulder. The tiger, India’s national animal, symbolized strength, spirit, and the theme of RRR. The angrakha-style neckline and intricate detailing beautifully combined modern elegance with cultural roots, making the outfit a statement of national pride.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind his look, NTR Jr. shared:
“It’s not just us walking the carpet—it’s India. The tiger being our national animal, I wanted my outfit to represent my country.”
He humorously tied the design to RRR’s iconic tiger sequence, adding, “Haven’t you seen that in RRR? It (tiger) jumped out at me.”
A Trendsetting Moment
NTR Jr.’s red-carpet appearance didn’t just captivate global audiences; it sparked a movement back home. The tiger motif quickly became a sensation, influencing Indian designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. From runway collections to festive attire, the bold embroidery and cultural symbolism became a trend for celebrating Indian identity through fashion.
A Legacy of Indian Pride
The RRR journey didn’t end with its Oscar triumph. The recently announced documentary, RRR Beyond and Behind, releasing on December 20, 2024, offers a glimpse into the passion behind the film’s success. Meanwhile, NTR Jr. continues his ascent with Devara, solidifying his legacy as a global star.
NTR Jr.’s Oscars outfit wasn’t just couture—it was a cultural statement. By blending heritage with contemporary style, he set a new standard for Indian representation on the global stage, proving that fashion can be both meaningful and trendsetting.
