Sara Arjun Revives Mughal-Era Lampi Work In A Regal Dhurandhar Look By Divani

Sara Arjun brings centuries-old craftsmanship into sharp focus with one of her striking looks from Dhurandhar, recently unveiled through still photographs. The ensemble foregrounds lampi work, an age-old metal embellishment technique that once adorned ceremonial attire and royal wardrobes reintroducing it through a cinematic lens.

Seen wearing the Lampi-Chaddi lehenga by Divani, Sara’s look draws its power from texture and tradition rather than excess ornamentation. The lehenga is crafted using traditional lampi gota, giving the fabric a subtle metallic sheen that catches the light with quiet drama. The surface feels almost sculptural, echoing the armour-like elegance associated with historic court costumes.

The lehenga is paired with an intricately

made zardoz kurti, elevated by handcrafted naqshi jhallar detailing. Each metal element has been individually shaped and applied by skilled artisans, creating a rhythmic fringe that adds movement and depth to the silhouette. The craftsmanship reflects hours of meticulous labour, celebrating techniques that are increasingly rare in contemporary fashion.

Adding softness and contrast to the structured ensemble is a distinctive Ek Taar Tissue odhana. According to the label, the veil is detailed with semi-precious pearls and emeralds, layered with age-old naqshi challa work. Hand-rolled naqshi jhallar trims frame the edges, while the use of rich handwoven Banarasi fabric grounds the look firmly in Indian textile heritage. The result is a composition that balances tradition, texture, and visual storytelling tailored for cinematic placement.

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Sara’s accessories reinforce the regal tone of the ensemble. She styles the look with a passa, also known as a jhoomar, worn elegantly along the hairline. Statement earrings and a kaan chain complete the jewellery story, lending the look an unmistakable old-world grandeur.

Lampi work itself is a historic metal application technique used on textiles, considered a form of gota work. The process involves flattening thin strips of metal traditionally gold, silver, or copper from wire and attaching them to fabric through stitching, couching, or weaving. Often combined with zardozi, naqshi, and badla, lampi work creates embossed floral and geometric motifs prized for their reflective, mirror-like finish.

Popular during the Mughal period and extensively patronised by princely courts, including the Nizams of Hyderabad, lampi work symbolised power and prestige. Through this Dhurandhar look, Sara Arjun not only revives a historic craft but also places it firmly within contemporary visual culture.