Kangana turns Shekhawati princess for Suneet Varma's bridal show

Bold and beautiful Kangana Ranaut made for a regal looking Shekhawati princess in finery designed by Suneet Varma for his elaborate and stunning showcase at the BMW India Bridal Fashion Week (IBFW) here. Her look was well-accentuated by an intricately designed statement headgear, and she loved it.

The "Queen" actress, who seems to be getting used to playing 'Rani', catwalked confidently in a maroon and red ensemble, which included a blouse that many won't dare to wear for their wedding day.

Nevertheless, it was beautifully crafted and embroidered. The dupatta, in velvet, was neatly draped and pleated on her shoulder and her neckline was wide enough to put a one-of-a-kind neckpiece inspired by a peacock, on full display.

Post the show at the DLF Emporio here Saturday night, Kangana told reporters: "My experience was fantastic because Suneet has made such lovely clothes. He is a great friend of mine. I am feeling proud seeing his collection."

She said she likes walking the ramp as "it's a good change from my routine".

A veteran designer, Varma's new collection 'The Princess of Shekhawati' is inspired by the hand-painted city of Shekhawati in Rajasthan.

"We took inspiration for the mirrorwork, jewellery and crowns from there, and used the Rajasthan technique to make every jewellery piece by hand in our office. When we were thinking of the showstopper, I couldn't think of anyone else other than Kangana. She's not only a good friend, but she infuses life into clothes, and it's something a lot of Bollywood actresses can't do," Varma said.

Kangana has no wedding plans as of now, but she has already set her eyes on the outfit she'd love to wear for her D-day.

"I showed Suneet one piece with the mirror work. I've told him, 'If you get an invitation for my marriage, bring this ghaghra choli along," she added.

The line was eye-soothing and most pieces would have Punjabi brides-to-be swoon over them. A mix of subtle, traditional, contemporary, blingy and ethnic - the collection has something for every prospective bride.

Anarkalis, suits, saris and cocktail gowns dominate the line, which has been created using a melange of colours which are palatable for bridal and pre-bridal events.

The show started on an interesting note with a rope dancer performing acrobatics. The set was as elaborate as the line - with a life-size statue of a painted elephant, and a huge motif of a peacock adorning each side of the stage. Overall, it looked like a mini palace.

"We took inspiration from miniature paintings from Rajasthan and drawings and artwork from Shekhawati as they have specific artwork. The idea was to get elements together in the clothes, jewellery and set," Varma said.