Ananya Panday turns Rambagh Palace into a runway in this blazing hot-pink lehenga for Punit Balana

The current heartthrob of Bollywood, Ananya Panday, has managed to be every designer’s favourite muse over the years and is proudly commanding the spotlight on the runway. Turning muse for designer Punit Balana’s 10-year milestone collection, ‘Amer’, this evening in Jaipur was no less than a celebration of culture and heritage.Drawing inspiration from the art and detailing of the majestic Amer Fort and Sheesh Mahal in Jaipur, the designer successfully captured the cultural essence and transformed it into grand couture. From the shimmery richness to the bold, intricate, and modern polish, with Ananya’s entry, everything turned opulent and had a cutting, youthful edge that hinted at modernity.

The embodiment of Punit’s vision, Ananya wore a hot pink, flared lehenga featuring coin embroidery with delicate Gota work that had the luminous shimmer of Chandi Till Ka Kaam.

It is one of the long-defined Rajasthani techniques that boasts about the rich craftsmanship of the city and state.

The lehenga skirt felt alive with the intricate patterns and carried the weight of tradition. Ananya teamed it with a cropped blouse that further added a contemporary edge. She also held onto a sleek dupatta and draped it neatly over her shoulders, which completed the fluid elegance.Walking amidst the candlelit runway, surrounded by fountains and expensive terracotta urns, the designer’s vision came into action, paying homage to Rajasthan’s heritage with his sharp modern storytelling skills.

She styled the look with an emerald and diamond necklace that sat right on her collarbone and added depth against the bright pink shade. On the glam front, Ananya kept a luminous base with defined eyes and flushed cheeks, and added a natural lip shade, further allowing the couture to take centre stage.She styled her hair into a sleek, low bun, which focused on the detailing and the precision of the back and ensemble she carried. From the choice of venue, which screamed heritage and fashion, to the muse, who carried a fresh elegance and commanded the right presence, Punit Balana’s vision indeed took us back in time, making his decade in fashion look grand and absolutely iconic.