Twinkle Khanna’s Ganesh Chaturthi saree look is a masterclass in effortless festive dressing

There’s something undeniably magnetic about Twinkle Khanna’s festive style, the way it blends old-world charm with a quiet, confident modernity. For Ganesh Chaturthi this year, the 51-year-old author and former actor reminded us why she’s the unofficial poster girl for the intellectual South Bombay aesthetic. On Instagram, she shared a series of serene yet cheerful glimpses from her home, captioning it with her signature wit: “Our hearts are ready for Ganpati Bappa, our stomachs for modaks. The perks of getting ready early: first dibs. What do you love the most about this festival?” It’s this mix of literary quirk and visual elegance that makes Twinkle’s festive fashion so relatable yet aspirational.

For the occasion, she wore a rani-pink silk saree, the kind of saturated jewel tone that instantly brightens a room, woven with delicate lotus motifs and finished with a finely worked golden border. Draped the traditional way, the saree’s pallu fell in an unhurried, graceful line from her shoulder, the silhouette a study in understated poise. Her blouse choice was telling: a metallic gold number with a flattering V-neckline and half sleeves, subtle enough to let the saree speak, but modern enough to feel current. This is a styling move many South Bombay women swear by, striking the perfect balance between heritage and a hint of contemporary ease. Jewellery was minimal yet deliberate: a pair of golden drop earrings, a single slim bangle on one wrist. Her makeup echoed the same refined restraint - nude eyeshadow, well-defined brows, a whisper of mascara, and a muted nude lip.

A perfectly placed red bindi anchored the look in tradition, while her sleek, middle-parted bun gave it the intellectual crispness she’s known for.

Even in the details, the pared-back accessories, the conscious choice of a handloom-inspired silk, the way the drape honours the sari’s natural fall, Twinkle’s look is an ode to a certain kind of festive dressing. It’s celebratory without excess, rooted without being rigid, and most importantly, it tells a story.

This Ganesh Chaturthi, Twinkle Khanna didn’t just wear a saree. She wore a mood - one of grace, heritage, and the quiet confidence of a woman who knows exactly who she is. And if that isn’t the ultimate style inspiration for the season, we don’t know what is.