Alia Bhatt has officially joined the internet’s growing nostalgia wave, taking fans straight back to one of the most transformative years of her life and career — 2016. Embracing the viral trend of revisiting mid-2010s memories, the actress shared a carousel of never-before-seen throwback photographs on Instagram on Friday, January 16. Titled “2016 Ki Kahani,” the post offered an intimate peek into her personal and professional milestones from a decade ago.
Reflecting on the year, Alia revealed that she entered 2016 feeling “pretty grounded,” unaware that it would soon become one of the most defining phases of her journey in Bollywood. That year saw her starring in four major film releases, firmly establishing her as one of the industry’s most promising and bankable stars. From behind-the-scenes snapshots to candid off-duty moments, the photo dump captured the energy, excitement, and friendships that shaped her rise.
Fans were especially thrilled to spot throwback pictures with some of Bollywood’s biggest names — Shah Rukh Khan, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, and Aditya Roy Kapur among them. One photograph in particular stole the spotlight: Alia posing with Shah Rukh Khan, her “favourite co-star.” The duo worked together in Dear Zindagi, released in 2016, a film celebrated for its refreshing narrative and heartfelt performances that later became a cult favourite.
The post also revisited memories from the hugely popular Dream Team Tour, a Bollywood concert series that toured the United States in 2016. Alia shared an unseen group photo with Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, and Aditya Roy Kapur, recalling the whirlwind of performances, travel, and camaraderie. The tour itself was a star-studded spectacle featuring Karan Johar, Katrina Kaif, Parineeti Chopra, Badshah, and more, combining Bollywood glamour with grand stage productions.
Beyond the professional highlights, Alia also included personal moments — like attending Coldplay’s concert in Berlin — a memory she fondly revisited in her caption.
Her nostalgic update arrives at a time when social media is collectively embracing the past. With users reviving mid-2010s fashion, makeup trends, and Instagram aesthetics, the phrase “2026 is the new 2016” has become a cultural mood.
From her debut in Student of the Year to powerhouse performances in Highway, Gangubai Kathiawadi, and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, Alia’s journey continues to evolve. She was last seen in Jigra and will next appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.