From Bell-Bottoms to Distressed Jeans: The Denim Journey in Bollywood from Rajesh Khanna to Ranbir Kapoor

Bollywood, India’s dream factory, has always been a harbinger of style and fashion. Over the decades, it has introduced and immortalized trends that have trickled down to every corner of the country. Among these trends, denim has stood the test of time, evolving with the changing narratives of cinema and society. From Rajesh Khanna’s bell-bottoms in the 70s to Ranbir Kapoor’s distressed jeans in the 2010s, denim has been a silent yet powerful storyteller in Bollywood’s journey. Let’s trace this fascinating evolution.

The 70s: Rajesh Khanna and the Bell-Bottom Revolution

The 1970s marked the beginning of Bollywood’s flirtation with denim. Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Indian cinema, brought charm and charisma to the silver screen with his impeccable style. Bell-bottoms, often paired with denim shirts or jackets, became his signature look in films like Haathi Mere Saathi and Anand. These wide-legged trousers were a global trend, and Khanna’s adoption of them cemented denim as a fashionable choice in India.

For the Indian audience, denim in the 70s was more than just a fabric—it was a symbol of modernity and aspiration. Bell-bottoms were embraced by the youth, who saw them as a way to emulate their favorite stars and make a statement of rebellion against traditional norms.

The 80s: Amitabh Bachchan and the Angry Young Man Look

The 1980s saw the rise of Amitabh Bachchan, Bollywood’s “Angry Young Man.” Denim played a crucial role in defining his rugged, rebellious persona. In films like Deewar and Sholay, Bachchan’s denim-clad characters became icons of defiance and resilience. The blue denim jeans and jackets he wore symbolized the struggles of the common man, resonating deeply with the audience.

Bachchan’s denim looks were often paired with rolled-up sleeves, boots, and a no-nonsense attitude. This era established denim as a staple for anyone wanting to exude toughness and grit. It was no longer just a fashion statement; it was a declaration of identity.

The 90s: Shah Rukh Khan and Casual Cool

As the 1990s ushered in a wave of romance and melodrama, denim underwent a transformation. Shah Rukh Khan, the king of romance, made denim synonymous with casual coolness. In Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, his denim jackets and jeans became iconic, representing the quintessential boy-next-door charm.

This period saw denim transitioning from rugged to romantic. Bollywood’s heroes and heroines embraced denim in lighter shades, often pairing it with floral shirts or pastel tops. The 90s also marked the arrival of double denim—a trend where denim jackets and jeans were worn together, creating a cohesive and stylish look.

The 2000s: Hrithik Roshan and the Era of Experimentation

The turn of the millennium brought with it a new wave of experimentation in Bollywood fashion. Hrithik Roshan, with his chiseled looks and impeccable style, became the poster boy for designer denim. In films like Dhoom 2, he showcased a variety of denim styles, from slim-fit jeans to embellished jackets.

This era was characterized by the rise of designer denim, with brands introducing unique fits, washes, and embellishments. Bollywood’s influence on denim fashion extended beyond the screen, with stars collaborating with designers to create exclusive collections. Denim became a versatile canvas for creativity, reflecting the changing tastes of the Indian audience.

The 2010s: Ranbir Kapoor and the Rise of Distressed Denim

The 2010s saw Bollywood’s younger generation redefining denim with a focus on comfort and individuality. Ranbir Kapoor, known for his effortless style, popularized distressed and ripped jeans in films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. His laid-back yet chic denim looks resonated with millennials, who embraced the trend wholeheartedly.

Distressed denim became a symbol of rebellion and nonchalance, perfectly aligning with the carefree and experimental spirit of the decade. Bollywood’s leading ladies, too, played a significant role in popularizing denim, with stars like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt incorporating denim dresses, skirts, and jumpsuits into their on-screen wardrobes.

Denim Today: Bollywood’s Ongoing Love Affair

Today, denim remains a cornerstone of Bollywood fashion, evolving with global trends and technological advancements. Stars like Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra have taken denim to new heights, experimenting with bold colors, patterns, and sustainable practices. Bollywood’s influence on denim is no longer confined to India; it has become a global phenomenon, with Indian designers and brands gaining recognition on international platforms.

Sustainability has also become a key focus, with many Bollywood celebrities endorsing eco-friendly denim brands. The use of organic cotton, recycled materials, and water-saving techniques is reshaping the denim industry, making it more responsible and future-ready.

Conclusion

From Rajesh Khanna’s bell-bottoms to Ranbir Kapoor’s distressed jeans, denim has been a silent yet powerful storyteller in Bollywood’s journey. It has mirrored the changing narratives of Indian cinema and society, evolving from a symbol of rebellion to a canvas for creativity and sustainability. As Bollywood continues to experiment with denim, this timeless fabric remains a symbol of style, comfort, and individuality, inspiring millions across generations.

Events like Denim Show continue to celebrate this ongoing legacy, showcasing the innovations and trends that define the denim industry today. Denim Show 2025, scheduled for 22-23-24 May 2025 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex, Mumbai, and in New Delhi from 21-22-23 August 2025 at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan), will provide a platform for industry leaders and enthusiasts to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of denim. Whether it’s the artistry of sustainable production or the creative genius behind iconic styles, these events will continue to push the boundaries of denim fashion and its impact on the global stage.