CANNES: The 78th Cannes Film Festival kicks off this week and Bollywood is making a grand return to the French Riviera. Several Indian celebrities, including Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, are expected to attend the prestigious global event, adding a vibrant splash of South Asian glamour to the international red carpet.
This year, the Indian presence at Cannes is seen as more than just fashionable appearances. With several films in global categories and collaborations being explored with international production houses, Indian cinema is once again being recognised for its artistic merit and storytelling power.
Janhvi Kapoor, who recently delivered a critically acclaimed performance in a historical drama, is rumoured to debut a couture piece by an emerging Indian designer. Alia Bhatt is expected to represent India in a panel on women in cinema, showcasing her growing global appeal following her crossover projects.
Veteran actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, a long-time Cannes favourite, is anticipated to walk for L’Oréal’s global campaign. Her presence, as always, is likely to draw global media attention and fashion coverage.
This increased visibility of Bollywood at Cannes is a testament to the international expansion of Indian cinema. The festival not only celebrates filmmaking but also offers Indian artists a global platform to network, promote, and collaborate on future creative ventures.