Akshaye Khanna's "Sher-E-Baloch" look from the film Dhurandhar has become a viral sensation, particularly his appearance in the song "FA9LA". The song, a Bahraini hip-hop track by Flipperachi, features Khanna in a striking ensemble that has captured the attention of audiences and fashion enthusiasts alike. Costume designer Smriti Chauhan has revealed the creative process behind this now-iconic look.

Chauhan explained that the team's primary goal was to ensure Khanna became the focal point of the sequence. To achieve this, they intentionally dressed him in an all-black outfit. This decision was made to make him stand out amidst the vibrant visuals and dynamic choreography of the song.

The "Sher-E-Baloch" ensemble is a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. It features a black Balochi-inspired pathani, paired with a slim-fit Chinese collar kurta. Details include suede piping and matte black metallic buttons, adding a touch of modern elegance. A light pashmina scarf completes the look, providing fluidity and movement.

While the outfit draws heavily from Balochistan's cultural roots, the design team made subtle yet impactful choices to enhance its visual appeal. Instead of using pure silk, they opted for a silk-wool blend for added texture and comfort. The team initially had trouble deciding on the color for the pagri (turban). To create a striking contrast, the black attire was paired with a crisp white pagri. Chauhan noted that this contrast "cuts through the sea of colours we see around him, making him stand out".

The "Sher-E-Baloch" persona has resonated deeply with audiences, inspiring countless recreations and tributes across social media platforms. The look has become a fresh and influential fashion trend, with many praising its bold styling, layered textures, and commanding presence. The costume design plays a vital role in shaping audience perception and storytelling, strengthening its cultural impact and reinforcing the intensity and intent of the song through powerful visual storytelling.

Dhurandhar, directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal and Sara Arjun, has become a box office success, with Akshaye Khanna's portrayal of Rehman Dakait receiving widespread acclaim. Khanna's "Sher-E-Baloch" look in "FA9LA" has undoubtedly contributed to the film's popularity, becoming one of the most talked-about fashion moments of the year.