Jobaaj Stories
Bollywood actress Disha Patani recently made waves at the unveiling of the second edition of MAMI Select, sporting an outfit that pays homage to Madhuri Dixit’s iconic "Dhak Dhak" look. However, her sultry recreation has divided opinions online, with some fans praising her boldness, while others have harshly criticized the attempt. The most vocal critic? Instagram's anonymous fashion critic, Diet Sabya.
Disha Patani Channels Madhuri Dixit’s Iconic "Dhak Dhak" Look
Back in the 90s, Madhuri Dixit became a sensation with her performance in the song "Dhak Dhak Karne Laga" from Beta. Her bold orange saree, halter-neck blouse, and sensual styling made her an overnight sensation, and the outfit has since become a symbol of classic Bollywood allure.
In a nod to this legendary look, Disha Patani wore a sparkly orange saree with a full-sleeve embroidered blouse. The blouse featured a bold sweetheart neckline, and the saree’s low-slung drape showcased her curves and midriff, much like Madhuri's original look. Disha completed her ensemble with open hair, heels, and a dewy makeup look, letting her attire do the talking.
Despite her effort to channel Madhuri’s original sensuality, the response online was not what she might have expected.
Fashion Critic Diet Sabya Fires Back: “Tacky Rerun”
Diet Sabya, an Instagram account known for its blunt takes on fashion, didn’t hold back in its criticism of Disha's look. In a post, the fashion watchdog declared: “Some tributes are best left in the archives. And in the milieu of Dishafication™, that legendary Dhak Dhak ensemble doesn’t land, sorry. It’s a NO. Not homage, not nostalgia — just a watered-down rerun (and looks tacky on her?) with none of Madhuri’s original sensuality. Next!”
The phrase “Dishafication™” is a play on Disha’s signature sexy aesthetic. However, Diet Sabya’s critique seemed to focus more on the challenge of recreating a legendary Bollywood look without losing the essence that made it iconic. Madhuri's charisma and sensuality were unmatched, and Diet Sabya implied that Disha’s attempt lacked that original magic.
Fans Defend Disha While Others Side with Sabya
The online reactions were divided. While Diet Sabya’s followers echoed the sentiment, some fans defended Disha’s right to reinterpret a classic. One user commented, “I actually really like it on her!” Another fan wrote, “It reminds me of Kim and Kourtney in desi attire. Totally out of place.”
However, some critics were quick to point out the differences in how the two actresses approached the look. “Why she gotta make everything ‘sexual’? Why can’t the recreation be graceful?” one comment read, highlighting how some people felt that the tribute lacked the elegance that defined Madhuri’s performance.
Recreating Icons is a Fine Line Between Tribute and Costume
Fashion tributes can be tricky, and recreating an iconic look is never an easy task. Madhuri’s golden ensemble is etched in the memories of millions, and when attempting to bring it back, there is always the challenge of ensuring the tribute doesn’t veer too much into costume territory.
For Disha Patani, her take on the "Dhak Dhak" look was bold and eye-catching, but critics argue it may have missed the mark by not capturing the same grace and sensuality that made Madhuri’s original look unforgettable.
Conclusion
While Disha Patani’s effort to channel Madhuri Dixit’s timeless “Dhak Dhak” look was undoubtedly a bold move, it has sparked a heated debate online. Fashion is subjective, and while some may view her look as a fun tribute, others believe it falls short of the original magic. One thing is certain: when attempting to recreate an iconic moment in Bollywood fashion, it’s important to bring more than just shimmer and skin — it’s about embodying the spirit of the original.
