This majestic bird almost became India’s national bird, and now it has made a glamorous comeback in Sonam Kapoor’s outfit! Any guesses?

In 1963, the majestic and alluring peacock was declared the national bird of India. Walking like a poem with its iridescent green and blue feathers, this iconic bird holds deep cultural and religious significance across the nation and is celebrated for its beauty, grace, and pride.The peacock has been a part of Indian tradition and mythology for centuries. Associated with deities like Lord Krishna and Lord Murugan, it embodies both beauty and divinity and, over time, has become a symbol of mysticism. But did you know it actually had to fight its way to the title of India’s national bird? Surprisingly, it wasn’t everyone’s first choice.

Initially, the Great Indian Bustard was considered for the honour.

However, since it lacked strong associations with Indian mythology and culture, it lost out. Some even say its English name, which sounds somewhat awkward or slang-like, worked against it. Known as Godawan in Hindi, the Great Indian Bustard might have missed the title but recently, it made a grand comeback, thanks to Sonam Kapoor.

The actor recently wore a customised Erdem gown in a soft ivory tone, featuring delicate motifs of the Godawan bird, the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, which is listed on the IUCN Red List.

The flared, floor-length gown wasn’t just a conscious style statement; it became a symbol that seamlessly blended heritage with modernity. It paid homage to India’s natural and cultural heritage while spotlighting the bird’s fragile journey toward recovery.Conservation efforts have helped the Great Indian Bustard population grow from about 100 to 173 birds in recent years, a small but hopeful step forward. The motif on Sonam’s gown, therefore, wasn’t merely decorative; it told a story of resilience and revival.

Sonam Kapoor carried the piece with elegance and conviction, transforming fashion into a canvas of advocacy. Through her ensemble, she urged both national and global audiences to pay attention to the cause, proving that fashion isn’t always about bling; sometimes, it’s a story of survival that deserves greater attention and admiration.Cementing her reputation as someone who uses fashion for more than just aesthetic appeal, Sonam chose to tell the tale of an endangered species, reminding the world that style can carry substance. Her presence at the show was more than a red-carpet moment; it was a cultural statement, reaffirming her position as a global style icon and a storyteller for causes that truly need more voices.