It’s been fifteen years since Aisha first lit up the big screen and the film continues to hold a unique place in the hearts of movie lovers, especially those who admire fashion. Released on August 6, 2010,
Aisha was more than just a breezy romantic comedy. It was a style statement that changed how fashion was viewed in Indian cinema.
To commemorate the fifteenth anniversary of the film, Sonam Kapoor has been resharing nostalgic images and moments from Aisha on her social media platforms. One such picture features her alongside her female co-stars—Amrita Puri, Ira Dubey and Lisa Haydon. The posts reflect the enduring bond between the cast and the lasting cultural impact of the film.
The film marked the production debut of Rhea Kapoor and was directed by Rajshree Ojha. With a fresh and youthful cast, Aisha slowly evolved into a cult classic, particularly among young audiences and fashion-forward viewers.
When Fashion Became the Star
What truly set Aisha apart was its unapologetic love for fashion. The film became a style revolution in Bollywood, blending high fashion with relatable storytelling. Sonam’s character, Aisha Kapoor, was dressed in designer outfits from global luxury brands like Dior and Ferragamo, a first for a mainstream Hindi film at the time. Styled by Pernia Qureshi, the film’s wardrobe choices were bold, feminine and trendsetting, so much so that Aisha is often remembered more for its fashion than its plot.
Plot of the movie
Aisha was adapted from Jane Austen’s classic novel Emma and set in Delhi’s high-society circles. With a tone similar to the American film Clueless, it brought Austen’s themes of matchmaking, self-discovery and class into a distinctly Indian context. The plot followed Aisha Kapoor as she tried to play matchmaker for her friend Shefali, leading to humorous and emotional consequences. This blend of Western literary roots with Indian sensibilities created a narrative that felt both familiar and fresh.
Another aspect that made Aisha memorable was its critically acclaimed soundtrack. Composed by Amit Trivedi with lyrics by Javed Akhtar, the music perfectly captured the film’s youthful, vibrant tone. Songs like Gal Mitthi Mitthi and Sham remain popular to this day. The soundtrack, paired with the film’s aesthetics, helped solidify Aisha as a generational film that resonated with urban Indian youth navigating love, identity and friendship.