From Satyajit Ray To Aishwarya Rai : India’s Power Presence At Cannes 2025

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The 78th Cannes Film Festival is underway, and while no Indian films feature in the main competition this year, the presence of Indian talent is both visible and vibrant. From industry veterans returning with a sense of legacy to emerging voices making their debuts, the Indian contingent at Cannes 2025 reflects the evolving face of Indian cinema and its growing resonance on the global stage.

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From screenings and jury roles to fashion-forward red carpet moments, Indian celebrities are leaving their mark not only by representing cinema but also by showcasing cultural confidence through personal style and artistic collaborations.

Urvashi Rautela's Lavish Look Turns Heads

One of the most eye-catching red carpet appearances came from Urvashi Rautela, who embraced maximalist glamour with a signature flair. For the opening night, she wore a striking custom gown by designer Michael Cinco - a rich composition of blues, reds, and yellows, brought together in a vivid, sculptural silhouette. Valued at an astonishing $4.84 million, the gown was a visual feast and a highlight of the festival's early fashion moments.

Adding to the drama, Rautela carried a statement piece: a stone-studded parrot clutch by Judith Leiber, priced at $5,495 (approximately ₹4.68 lakh). The accessory, playful yet luxurious, perfectly complemented the boldness of her ensemble and sparked lively conversation among onlookers and fashion enthusiasts alike.

Newcomers And Nostalgia : Alia Bhatt And Simi Garewal

Adding freshness to this year's roster, Alia Bhatt was expected to make her Cannes debut, following her much-talked-about Met Gala appearance. As Gucci's first Indian global ambassador, her potential presence generated buzz, though current geopolitical tensions may delay her appearance. Still, fans remain optimistic for a surprise red carpet moment.

Meanwhile, Simi Garewal is set to grace the red carpet for the first time on 19 May. She will attend the Cannes Classics screening of the newly restored Aranyer Din Ratri (1970), a film by Satyajit Ray in which she played a pivotal role. This appearance not only pays homage to Ray's cinematic genius but also marks a poignant moment in Garewal's storied career.

Homegrown Talent On The Global Stage : Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter And Karan Johar

Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter are representing Indian independent cinema through their film Homebound, which is being showcased in the Un Certain Regard section. The film's global premiere at Cannes is a proud moment for the young actors and for Indian cinema at large.

Karan Johar, whose Dharma Productions co-produced Homebound, also made an appearance, celebrating the film's selection. "This achievement is not just a win for our film industry, but a beacon of hope for emerging filmmakers," he shared, highlighting the growing international relevance of Indian narratives.

Honouring Satyajit Ray : Sharmila Tagore Returns

Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore returns to Cannes for the screening of Aranyer Din Ratri, further cementing Satyajit Ray's enduring influence. Having served on the main jury in 2009, Tagore's reappearance adds depth and sentiment to this year's festival, bridging past and present in Indian cinema.

Women Leading The Charge : Payal Kapadia And Nitanshi Goel

Award-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia joins the Cannes jury this year, following acclaim for her movies - A Night Of Knowing Nothing and All We Imagine As Light. Her inclusion in a panel alongside the likes of Juliette Binoche, Halle Berry, and Jeremy Strong speaks volumes about the growing global recognition of Indian storytellers.

Meanwhile, 16-year-old Nitanshi Goel, already lauded for her role in Laapataa Ladies, makes her Cannes debut as the youngest Indian actress to win a Best Actress award. Her presence signals a new era of youthful talent taking centre stage on an international platform.

Art Meets Cinema : Shalini Passi And Paresh Maity

Art collector Shalini Passi and contemporary artist Paresh Maity also made their presence felt, representing the project Longitude 77. Their red carpet appearance celebrates the intersection of Indian contemporary art and world cinema, reinforcing Cannes' role as a cross-disciplinary cultural celebration.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan : The Unmissable Icon

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a name synonymous with Cannes, continues her legacy at the festival. With over two decades of association as a L'Oréal Paris ambassador, her presence is nothing short of a tradition. Graceful, poised, and ever elegant, Aishwarya remains one of the most anticipated attendees each year, reaffirming her status as a global fashion and cinema icon.

A Festival Of Presence, Not Just Films

While Indian films may not be in competition this year, Cannes 2025 clearly belongs to Indian artists, storytellers, and style-makers. From red carpet statements to jury honours and cultural tributes, the festival has become a stage where India asserts not just its cinematic depth, but its creative diversity. As each star, whether established or emerging steps forward, they carry with them stories that continue to shape the global narrative of Indian artistry.