MUMBAI — Fashion designer Manish Malhotra says the costumes he created for Kareena Kapoor Khan’s character “Poo” in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham have evolved into enduring pop culture symbols, even 25 years after the film’s release.
In a social media post reflecting on the legacy of the 2001 blockbuster, Malhotra credited the film — directed by Karan Johar — with shaping wedding fashion and mainstream style trends for generations.
“Bole Chudiyan Song that started the custom of Indian wedding sangeet and families dressing up and dancing together in @karanjohar ’s Iconic 2001 Releasesed Bollywood Blockbuster #kabhikhushikabhiegham to all the costumes of @kareenakapoorkhan being a part of PopCulture even today 25 years later .. and over the years making the outfits for our model @anitakumar_1 to customers across the Globe has been heartwarming ..(sic),” he wrote.
Malhotra also shared photos of Nysa Devgn wearing a lehenga inspired by the film’s famous “Bole Chudiyan” look.
“@nysa_devgen Gorgeous and Vibrant in the new version 2025/26 of what we at our Atelier call it the BolyeChudiyan Outfit stands for how the Vision i Saw 35 years ago when I started my career in 1990 Of Costume Designing and introducing Styling to Many of the Styles introduced in cinema becoming Main Stream Indian Fashion Trends transcending into Generations and Different versions making the costumes Timeless …(sic),” he added.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham featured an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor Khan. The family drama centered on love, estrangement, and reconciliation within a wealthy yet traditional Indian household.
Beyond its emotional storyline, the film became known for its lavish sets, opulent visuals, and standout wardrobe. Kareena’s portrayal of the glamorous and outspoken “Poo” quickly became iconic, with her bold, fashion-forward outfits widely considered ahead of their time. The character’s confident, unapologetic style continues to resonate with younger audiences.
Malhotra, who has been part of the film and fashion industry for 35 years, has often spoken about his role in bridging cinematic costume design with mainstream Indian fashion trends.
In 2025, he expanded his creative footprint by launching Stage5 Production and stepping into film production. His debut project as a producer, Gustaakh Ishq, starring Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Naseeruddin Shah, was released in November. While the film received mixed box office results, it drew favorable critical reviews.
As Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham marks a quarter-century since its release, Malhotra’s designs — especially Poo’s unforgettable looks — remain a defining chapter in Bollywood’s fashion history. (Source: IANS)
