Sridevi Shot ‘Megha Re Megha’ with a High Fever: Neeta Lulla Reveals the Story Behind the Iconic Rajasthani Costume

Some cinematic moments remain unforgettable not only because of what audiences see on screen but also because of the dedication that made them possible. One such moment is “Megha Re Megha” from Yash Chopra’s 1991 romantic drama Lamhe, a song remembered for its vibrant visuals, graceful choreography and Sridevi’s striking Rajasthani-inspired attire.

Designer Neeta Lulla recently revisited those memories, revealing how the costume was conceived, why authenticity became a priority, and how Sridevi continued filming despite being seriously unwell. The recollection offers fresh insight into the collaborative creative process behind one of Bollywood’s most enduring musical sequences.

Neeta Lulla Recalls the First Day of Shooting Lamhe

Speaking in a recent Instagram video, Neeta Lulla reflected on her early experience working with Sridevi during Lamhe.

She revealed that “Megha Re Megha” was among the first sequences filmed for the movie and marked only her second collaboration with the celebrated actor.

According to Lulla, Sridevi approached the costume with a clear creative vision and wanted an outfit that looked unmistakably Rajasthani while remaining authentic to the setting and character.

Sridevi’s Vision for the Costume

Rather than leaving every creative decision solely to the costume department, Sridevi actively discussed the look she wanted for the song.

She reportedly requested:

• An outfit inspired by traditional Rajasthani attire.
• A black and maroon colour palette.
• Designs that felt authentic rather than heavily stylised.
• Jewellery that complemented the regional aesthetic.

This collaborative approach reflected Sridevi’s well-known attention to detail and commitment to fully inhabiting her characters.

Creating an Authentic Rajasthani Look

Neeta Lulla explained that authenticity was central to the costume design process.

Instead of creating a purely glamorous film costume, the team focused on drawing inspiration from Rajasthan’s rich textile traditions and handcrafted silver jewellery.

The resulting costume has since become one of the most memorable fashion moments in Hindi cinema.

Filming Through Illness

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Lulla’s recollection was her revelation that Sridevi was suffering from a high fever during the filming of the song.

Despite her condition, the actor reportedly completed the demanding shoot, demonstrating the professionalism and work ethic for which she was widely admired throughout her career.

For audiences, the final sequence gives no indication of the physical challenges she faced behind the scenes.

Why Megha Re Megha Remains Iconic

The song continues to be celebrated for several reasons:

• Sridevi’s expressive performance.
• Its visually rich cinematography.
• Traditional costume styling.
• Memorable choreography.
• The emotional atmosphere created by the rain sequence.

Together, these elements transformed the song into one of the defining moments of Lamhe.

The Fashion Legacy of Lamhe

Released in 1991, Lamhe has long been regarded as a landmark film not only for its storytelling but also for its costume design.

Sridevi portrayed a dual role, requiring distinct wardrobes that reflected two different personalities and generations.

Neeta Lulla’s costumes played an important role in visually distinguishing these characters while maintaining the film’s overall aesthetic.

Neeta Lulla and Sridevi: A Creative Partnership

Over the years, Neeta Lulla collaborated with several of Indian cinema’s leading actors, but her work with Sridevi remains especially memorable.

The designer has often spoken about the actor’s deep involvement in costume discussions and her appreciation for clothing that enhanced character development rather than merely creating glamorous screen appearances.

This collaborative relationship contributed to several memorable cinematic looks.

Why Authentic Costume Design Matters

Costumes in period and culturally rooted films serve purposes beyond visual appeal.

They help audiences understand:

• The character’s background.
• Regional traditions.
• Historical context.
• Social identity.
• Emotional tone of a scene.

In Megha Re Megha, the Rajasthani-inspired costume strengthened the song’s connection to its cultural setting while complementing the film’s visual storytelling.

Sridevi’s Commitment to Her Craft

Stories shared by directors, co-stars and technicians consistently highlight Sridevi’s dedication to her work.

Whether preparing emotionally demanding scenes, perfecting dance performances or collaborating on costume details, she was known for approaching every aspect of filmmaking with exceptional professionalism.

Lulla’s latest recollection adds another example to that legacy by illustrating the actor’s willingness to continue filming despite significant physical discomfort.

Timeline of the Film’s Creative Journey

Why the Story Still Resonates

Behind-the-scenes anecdotes often reveal the unseen effort behind memorable films, reminding audiences that iconic performances are frequently achieved through perseverance, preparation and collaboration.

Neeta Lulla’s account not only celebrates Sridevi’s dedication but also highlights the importance of costume design in creating enduring cinematic images that remain recognizable decades later.

Conclusion

Neeta Lulla’s recollection of filming “Megha Re Megha” offers a fascinating glimpse into the making of one of Bollywood’s most iconic songs. From Sridevi’s insistence on an authentic Rajasthani costume to her determination to complete the shoot despite a high fever, the story underscores the professionalism and artistic commitment that defined the legendary actor’s career.

More than thirty years after Lamhe first captivated audiences, these behind-the-scenes memories continue to deepen appreciation for the craftsmanship, collaboration and resilience that transformed a beautifully designed costume and a challenging day on set into an enduring piece of Indian cinema history.