
Devdas To Heeramandi: How Sanjay Leela Bhansali Elevates Storytelling Through Costumes
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A defining element of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's filmography is costume design. Each look is curated meticulously keeping in mind the history of that era.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is undeniably one of the finest and most visionary filmmakers in Indian cinema. His mastery lies in creating grand, immersive cinematic universes that blend opulence with authenticity. His ability to transport audiences through time is unparalleled. His films transcend time and genre, weaving unforgettable characters, powerful emotions, and layered narratives.
A defining element of his storytelling is costume design – each garment is historically rooted, meticulously styled, and narratively symbolic. From Devdas to Padmaavat, Bajirao Mastani to Heeramandi, Bhansali's costumes do not merely dress characters; they evoke history, royalty, and timeless elegance.
Heeramandi
In Heeramandi, every costume, from Manisha Koirala's to Sonakshi Sinha's and others', including those of the male and supporting cast, was crafted with such detail and authenticity that it effortlessly transported viewers back in time, evoking elegance, power, and cultural richness.
In Bajirao Mastani, Sanjay Leela Bhansali crafted each costume with breathtaking detail, transporting us back to the Maratha era. From Ranveer Singh's warrior attire to Priyanka Chopra's traditional look as Kashibai and Deepika Padukone's regal ensembles, every outfit echoed historical elegance and authenticity.
Padmaavat
Deepika Padukone, Padmaavat (2018). pic.twitter.com/FcQJ6SYsfk — ً (@SheethalS5) March 27, 2023
In Padmaavat, the director ensured every costume exuded royalty and authenticity. From Deepika's grand lehengas in the Ghoomar song to Shahid Kapoor's regal Rajput attire and Ranveer Singh's fierce, gritty looks, each outfit perfectly reflected the era and the essence of the story.
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela
[PICS] Unseen: Stills: Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in Ram Leela. #LahuMunhLagGaya ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YkdDUABb7u — Ranveer Planet (@RanveerPlanet) September 24, 2017
In Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, the director designed Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh's costumes to be both vibrant and rooted in tradition. Each outfit perfectly matched the film's colourful, dramatic setting, enhancing the passion, culture, and fiery energy of the narrative.
Devdas
Aishwarya rai and madhuri dixit in devdas (2002). pic.twitter.com/x2uKRClLyu — ً (@SheethalS5) May 16, 2025
In Devdas, the costumes of Madhuri Dixit, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan were timeless and iconic. From grand saris to intricate sherwanis, each outfit beautifully reflected the era and emotions, weaving a visual story that deepened the film's tragic romance.
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