Throwback Thursday: The story behind Hansika Motwani’s 18th-century Mughal art–inspired wedding lehenga that still feels royal

Hansika Motwani’s grand wedding allure was one of the most opulent celebrity weddings of all time; this fairytale union looked nothing short of a royal spectacle. The multi-day celebration blended regal heritage with modern-day glam, where her stunning 18th-century Mughal art-inspired lehenga made headlines. But nearly two years after the widely publicised wedding, the couple separated and were granted divorce in March 2026 by Bandra Family Court in Mumbai. What was once a dream-like union is now the most talked-about celebrity split. But today let's revisit her stunning wedding lehenga, which took the main spotlight at the wedding years ago.

Tying the knot on December 11, 2022, with businessman Sohael Kathuriya in Rajasthan, this winter wedding saw the bride decked in red walking down the aisle. The actress opted for a stunning Rimple and Harpreet customised lehenga featuring stunning peacock motifs, with panels that had floral motifs and leant towards 18th-century brocade fragments with Mughal miniatures.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

The lehenga featured dabka, naqashi, sequins, pearls, and semi-precious stone detailing. She wore a matching plunging-neckline blouse and a Banarasi zari dupatta layered with a handcrafted bandej pattern. The sheer net grace looked absolutely stunning with her intricate lehenga charm and provided a perfect overall balance to this royal look.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

If you think she balanced the look with a simple jewellery set, you’re mistaken. Hansika went all out with her accessories, wearing a beautiful polki choker neckpiece with a heavy stone-studded nath, matching mang tikka, and statement red wedding bangles and choodha set. Her stunning gold kaleereys were also seen dangling from Hansika’s alluring mehendi-clad hands.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

She went with the traditional bridal look with a hint of golden glitter, which is commonly paired with the red bridal look. Hansika neatly made a sleek middle-parted bun and adorned it with fresh flowers and wore a maang tikka at the centre. On the beauty front, she kept a dewy-illuminating base with smoky golden eyes, winged eyeliner, fluttery eyelashes, defined eyebrows, peach blush, and subtle brown lips.

(Image Credits: Pinterest)

Hansika’s bridal lehenga piece wasn’t just another bridal fit, but it was a couture tribute to India’s artistic legacy. Every detail reflected grandeur and stunning craftsmanship, defining the heritage and culture of the Mughal era. From the rich, ornate museum-style detailing, every panel unfolded like a dream, making it a perfect pick for brides who wish to seek a lavish yet contemporary edge.