The prestigious 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival is all set to begin on May 13 and will continue till May 24, 2025. Known for its glitz, cinematic excellence, and global influence, Cannes is one of the most iconic film festivals in the world. While no Indian film is featured in the main competition this year, director Neeraj Ghaywan’s film Homebound will be showcased in the “Un Certain Regard” section, bringing Indian storytelling to the global stage. Alongside, a host of Bollywood celebrities are expected to attend and light up the red carpet.
Alia Bhatt to Make Her Cannes Debut
Actress Alia Bhatt is set to make her first-ever appearance at Cannes this year. During a recent media interaction in Mumbai, she confirmed her participation. Alia, who is the first Indian global brand ambassador for Gucci, is expected to represent the brand at the festival. Last year, she turned heads at the Met Gala in a stunning Sabyasachi saree – setting high expectations for her Cannes look.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – The Timeless Queen of Cannes
When it comes to Cannes, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is a name that resonates with Indian fans. A Cannes veteran, she has been attending the festival for over two decades as a global ambassador for L’Oréal Paris. Her show-stopping appearances on the red carpet are highly anticipated each year, and 2025 is no exception.
Janhvi Kapoor & Ishaan Khatter to Attend for Homebound Premiere
Actors Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter will also be walking the red carpet as they play lead roles in Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound. The film, part of the Un Certain Regard selection, is set for its world premiere at Cannes, making it a special moment for both stars and Indian cinema.
Karan Johar May Join the Celebration
Filmmaker Karan Johar, whose Dharma Productions has supported Homebound, is also likely to attend the festival. Speaking on the selection, Karan said, “This isn’t just a victory for one film – it’s a milestone for emerging filmmakers across India, proving our stories deserve a global audience.”
Sharmila Tagore Returns with a Satyajit Ray Classic
Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore is set to grace the festival for the world premiere of the restored version of Satyajit Ray’s 1970 classic Aranyer Din Ratri. The film will be showcased under the “Cannes Classics” category. Notably, Sharmila had served on the festival’s main jury in 2009, and her return marks another proud moment for Indian cinema.
Payal Kapadia Joins the Main Jury
Acclaimed filmmaker Payal Kapadia will be part of the main competition jury this year. She joins an elite panel that includes Hollywood star Halle Berry and several global filmmakers, with Juliette Binoche as jury president. Last year, Kapadia’s film All We Imagine As Light won the Grand Prix, one of Cannes’ top honors.
Final Thoughts
While the spotlight at Cannes 2025 may not feature a mainstream Indian film in the primary competition, the presence of these diverse and influential Indian personalities ensures that the spirit of Bollywood and Indian cinema will continue to shine brightly on the international stage.
