Did you know? Aishwarya Rai’s ‘Poovukkul Oodum’ outfits in ‘Jeans’ were inspired by queens across the world

Aishwarya Rai’s looks in the ‘Poovukkul Oodum’ song from the 1998 Tamil film ‘Jeans’ continue to draw attention years after the film’s release. The song featured Aishwarya with Prashanth and presented her in several elaborate costumes. Each look drew inspiration from famous queens and royal figures from around the world, giving the song a strong fashion identity alongside its music and visuals.According to ABP Live, the outfits in ‘Poovukkul Oodum’ drew from global royal references. However, the costumes in ‘Jeans’ are widely credited to designer Neeta Lulla, who worked on Aishwarya Rai’s looks in the film. The song portrayed Aishwarya’s character, Madhumita, through looks inspired by queens from around the world.The film came after Aishwarya’s Miss World win in 1994 and her acting debut in Mani Ratnam’s ‘Iruvar’ in 1997. She then appeared in S. Shankar’s ‘Jeans’, where she played Madhumita. The song became one of the film’s most remembered visual moments because of its scale, costume design, and styling.The costumes included references to Cleopatra of Egypt, Queen Elizabeth I of England, Empress Wu Zetian of China, Queen Nefertiti of Egypt, and Queen Marie Antoinette of France.Aishwarya’s gold-and-black outfit with a headdress and collar drew on Cleopatra. Her red gown, pearl necklace, and crown reflected Queen Elizabeth I. Another look used a Chinese-style outfit with a dragon-embroidered cloak as a nod to Empress Wu Zetian.The song also featured a black gown with a bold headpiece and collar inspired by Queen Nefertiti. A pink gown with a powdered wig and rich accessories took cues from Queen Marie Antoinette.‘Jeans’ starred Prashanth and Aishwarya Rai in lead roles. The film used big sets, international locations, and grand song picturizations, a style often linked with Shankar’s cinema. ‘Poovukkul Oodum’ became known not only for its music but also for the way it placed Aishwarya in royal-inspired looks.Years later, the song remains part of discussions around Aishwarya Rai’s screen style and the fashion legacy of ‘Jeans’.